Product Design Interview

Microsoft
jwbw

Go to company page Microsoft

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Microsoft
jwbw
May 20, 2020 5 Comments

I have a upcoming interview at facebook. Im concerned about the type of projects i have to show them. I have heard they care more about good UI treatments, however my portfolio pieces are more about conversion optimization, end to end experience designs and user flows. I wouldnt say that the UI is bad though, it is simply following my companies design system. #design #interviews #productdesign

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TOP 5 Comments
  • There is nothing wrong with following the companies design system, but expect questions on it and prep an answer that can show your thinking there on how to improve (if you're more junior I'd ask "you mentioned you're not happy with the limitations of the system here, what do you feel needs improvement / what would you change", if you're more senior I'd dig into how you influence the system itself partnering with that team). Similarly follow up questions on did you inherit the UI from the code / controls or is following patterns that you disagree with?

    If you're only a few years out of college, consider using a college project which might show more skills in that area if you're really worried about having balance.

    Obviously I'm MSFT not FB, but the things you listed are super important important too and show a broader range of product thinking. For designers that show conversion optimization projects, I tend to ask questions like " you showed multiple solutions that you experimented with ... were you satisfied with all the ones you pushed out?" and then use that as an opening to dig into the one I felt was the weakest on design fundamentals.

    Honestly dealing with a design system is a common occurrence that exists at most big and small companies... It could open up a really interesting conversation with an interviewer around the different models, how does fb do it, pros and cons across the board.
    May 21, 2020 0
  • New
    xjsx43

    New

    PRE
    Sony Electronics, Apple
    xjsx43
    Show good product thinking and you’ll be fine. You should throw in at least some modicum of visual polish though.
    May 20, 2020 0
  • You have other opportunities to show your UI skills through e.g. your presentation, your app critique
    May 22, 2020 0
  • OnSIP / Design
    qbeJ65

    OnSIP Design

    qbeJ65
    You mind sharing how you managed to get an interview at facebook or what your work background/YOE is? I have 2 years at a mid-sized B2B company as a PD.
    May 21, 2020 1