Nail the 'Favorite Product' Question Like a Pro

A common interview question for Product Managers is, "What's your favourite product and why?" This isn’t just a chance to talk about a product you like; it’s an opportunity to showcase your analytical skills, understanding of product management principles, and passion for user-centric design. Here’s a friendly guide on how to answer this question effectively, using WhatsApp as an example.

Key Areas to Focus On

When structuring your answer, consider these key areas:

1. Overview of the Product

2. Why You Like It

3. Areas for Improvement

4. Prioritization

5. Personal Connection

6. Summary

Let’s break these down with examples from WhatsApp.

1. Overview of the Product

Start by introducing the product. Keep it brief but informative to show you understand its core functionality and market impact.

Example:

"One of my favourite products is WhatsApp. It’s a free messaging app available on both Android and iOS. You can send text and voice messages and make video calls. Since its launch in 2009, it’s really transformed how we communicate by using the internet instead of traditional SMS."

2. Why You Like It

Dive into why you like the product. Focus on its usefulness, innovation, and efficiency. This demonstrates your ability to appreciate valuable features and understand user needs.

Example:

Usefulness:"WhatsApp is fantastic for global communication. It lets you connect with friends and family anywhere in the world without needing an ISD connection. This makes communication accessible to everyone."

Innovation:"WhatsApp constantly rolls out new features. For instance:

• Voice Messaging: Users can send voice messages, which is great for people who aren’t as comfortable typing, like older users or those in tier 3 cities.

• WhatsApp Web: You can connect your phone to your laptop via QR code, making it easier to use the app on larger screens.

• Fingerprint Authentication: Adds an extra layer of security, ensuring your chats stay protected even if your phone is unlocked."

Efficiency:"The app is incredibly intuitive. Setting up group chats and managing conversations is straightforward. Users don’t need a tutorial to get started—it just works."

3. Areas for Improvement

Discuss areas where the product could be better. This shows your critical thinking and ability to spot potential enhancements.

Example:

"Even though WhatsApp is great, there are some areas where it could improve:

• Improving WhatsApp Groups:

• Automatically stop forwarding duplicate messages in groups to reduce clutter.

• Adding password protection for group chats could enhance security."

• Profile Photo Views: It would be cool if users could see how many people have viewed their profile picture. This could offer some fun interaction and feedback.
  

4. Prioritization

Explain how you’d prioritize these improvements. This shows your ability to make strategic decisions based on effort and impact.

Example:

Here’s how I’d prioritize based on effort, impact and priority:

1. Restrict forarding duplicate content in groups(Govt. regulations on fake news)

2. Password protection for groups(Regulation related)

3. Profile photo views for more engagement

Effort is rated based on technical complexity. Talk about various prioritization techniques depending on interest of the interviewer and the flow and if you feel it adds value at this point.

5. Personal Connection

Share a personal story to show your genuine interest in the product. This makes your answer more relatable and memorable.

Example:

"I’ve used WhatsApp a lot to keep in touch with family overseas. Its features have made staying connected easy and enjoyable. This personal connection aligns with my passion for creating products that enhance user experiences."

6. Short Summary

Wrap up by summarizing why the product stands out to you and its overall impact. This reinforces your key points and gives a strong finish to your answer.

Example:

"To sum it up, WhatsApp impresses me with its usefulness, ongoing innovation, and ease of use. While there’s room for improvement, like adding profile photo views and better group security, its impact on global communication is undeniable. For me, WhatsApp is a perfect example of balancing user needs with innovative features to create a product that truly resonates."

By following this structure, you’ll effectively communicate your understanding of product management principles and demonstrate why a product like WhatsApp is exemplary. This approach not only highlights your analytical skills but also shows your ability to think strategically and prioritize effectively.