MELANIE KARUNARATNE

These days, most Product Marketing interviews will have a task element outlined in the first or second interview. These may include a 30-60-90 day plan, a SWOT, a presentation, a launch plan, or other typical PMM tasks. At some point in the process, whether on application submission or in your first interview, you will be asked directly or indirectly why you want the role / want to join the company, so researching SWOT information will stand you in good stead to answer this question but I would not go overboard prepping until you've gained an understanding of the interview process for a particular role.

* As with many roles, a PMM already demonstrating they are working above their level is potentially ready to move up. Here are some further thoughts to determine whether someone is suitable to take on a senior role. Safe pair of hands - consistently delivers on goals and achieves significant milestones in time or ahead of time but not at the expense of others. Performance - is performing above average and shows high potential to continue to improve. Expands scope - grasps new opportunities offered. Finds solutions to problems. Good partner - considers others' points of view, treats others with respect, and is inclusive. Contributor - contributes to meetings and team projects but doesn't dominate every discussion or project.

* Provide the frameworks, processes, and introductions to the right people. * Be very clear to explain or confirm their understanding of various elements; feature, use case, business outcome, etc. * Ensure they have a clear understanding of the target audience. * Before they go near a messaging document, have them speak to sales, and explain how to ask questions. Have them sit in silently on customer/prospect calls and read your customer forums or external reviews. * Have them work on a small project and buddy them up with a more senior PMM or yourself if you are a small team. * Most importantly, do regular check-ins to keep them on the right track, make sure they aren’t overwhelmed, and listen to how they are doing – you might learn something!