A compilation of product leaders' favorite interview questions including hypothetical scenarios for a teleportation device, assessing candidate's values and motivation, and asking about diversity and inclusion initiatives.
Interview questions uncover valuable insights into a candidate's self-awareness and mindset.
Several interview questions focus on a candidate's storytelling and communication skills.
Deep dives
Favorite Interview Questions and What They Reveal
In this special episode, the host shares 17 of his favorite interview questions collected from various guests on the podcast. These questions uncover valuable insights into a candidate's self-awareness and mindset. For example, Eka Demeliano’s favorite question, 'To what do you attribute your success (other than luck)?', delves into a candidate's humility, self-awareness, and curiosity. Shashir Marotra's question about a teleportation device showcases a candidate's ability to simplify complex problems and think critically. Yuki Yamashita's question about controversial product decisions provides insight into a candidate's judgment and understanding of conflicting perspectives.
The Power of Storytelling and Personal Drive
Several interview questions focus on a candidate's storytelling and communication skills. Ben Williams' question, 'Fast forward three years, what's different about you then?', gauges a candidate's self-reflection, humility, and personal growth aspirations. Similarly, Paige Costello's question about a time something went wrong evaluates a candidate's ability to navigate challenges and learn from failures. Katie Dil, Kari Sarnan, and Camille Hearst all inquire about a candidate's proudest professional accomplishment, revealing their judgment, motivation, and values.
Navigating Ambiguity and Unconventional Thinking
Several interview questions aim to assess a candidate's problem-solving skills and mindset when faced with uncertainty. Jay Z's question about navigating ambiguity tests a candidate's ability to provide structure and forge a path forward. Nikhil Singal's question on unfair secrets challenges candidates to think beyond conventional wisdom and showcase their curiosity and creativity. I.O. Oma Jalo's question about decisions that worked unexpectedly examines a candidate's introspection and adaptability. These questions showcase the importance of critical thinking and the ability to break away from predictable interview responses.
This is a special episode of the podcast where I’ve curated my favorite interview questions that guests have shared, among over 100 podcast guests. Whether you’re a hiring manager, currently interviewing, or simply intrigued by the creative and perceptive questions that top product leaders rely on to find top talent, these questions offer unique insights into the strategies and philosophies that shape successful interviews.
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