Leveling the Playing Field: Empowering Product Managers and Engineers in Job Interviews
Leveling the Playing Field: Empowering Product Managers and Engineers in Job Interviews
The Power of Mutual Fit: Finding Alignment in Skills and Culture on Equal Terms
In the not-so-distant past, job interviews were characterized by a rigid hierarchy: candidates applied and companies decided whether or not to hire them. Times have changed, however, and a more collaborative and equal approach has emerged.
Today, it's clear that both companies and candidates are on equal footing in the interview process. Employers have come to understand that to attract the best candidates, they must be transparent and open throughout the hiring process. Likewise, candidates have recognized their value and are actively seeking a position that aligns with their goals, rather than simply begging for a job.
The driving force behind this shift is the growing significance of employer branding. Companies are recognizing the need to present themselves in a positive light and act in ways that appeal to potential candidates. With the rise of platforms like Glassdoor or your local employer review service, a company's reputation can have a significant impact on its ability to attract top talent.
Moreover, in some regions, companies are competing fiercely for the best candidates, while in others, the challenge is to find qualified talent at all.
So what are companies looking for in this changing landscape?
In today's hiring landscape, both companies and candidates prioritize finding a "fit". This includes not only a candidate's skill set, but also cultural alignment-a factor that may have been overlooked in the past, but has become increasingly important.
How can you ensure you're on equal footing during the interview process?
Confidently evaluate the company: Take the opportunity to evaluate the company's values, culture, and vision for the future. Have candid conversations about their goals and how your expertise can contribute to their success.
Communicate your interest in a mutual fit: Clearly express your desire to find a mutually beneficial match. Demonstrate very openly that you are not just looking for a job, but also evaluating whether the company aligns with your own aspirations and values.
Emphasize mindset and skills: Highlight not only your technical skills, but also your mindset and approach to problem solving. Companies are increasingly interested in individuals who can adapt to dynamic environments and foster a positive team culture.
Leverage your seniority: If you are a seasoned professional, capitalize on your experience to confidently discuss how you can contribute to the company's success and growth.
Successful interviews today require and allow for confident, level-headed candidates who are actively seeking the best fit.
In conclusion, the interviewing landscape has evolved and collaboration between companies and candidates has taken center stage. Embrace this change and approach interviews as an opportunity to find a mutually beneficial fit that aligns your skills, mindset, and goals with those of the organization. By doing so, you'll increase your chances of landing a position that truly satisfies both parties and leads to a successful and fulfilling career.
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What I read
This is separate section of this newsletter. I will list some of the best articles I read on the internet. They may or may not be related to the topic of this article. I will keep a list of the best articles (currently >700) at https://www.digital-product-management.com. These are today’s picks:
Pledge To Executives: Moving to the product model often requires significant cultural change, especially when moving from top-down, command and control styles of leadership.
List of questions for user interviews: Surprisingly, a lot of PMs don't know where to start in user interviews. This list helps.
What Is Jobs-to-be-Done? Great introduction to JTBD.