I applied online. The process took 4 weeks. I interviewed at Productive (CA) (Zagreb) in Jul 2024
Interview
Two rounds of interviews were conducted. The first was with the HR representative, and the second was with the same HR representative and a potential peer. Both interviews were enjoyable, and the HR person made an effort to ask challenging questions, at times appearing to openly indicate she dislikes me, but I answered all the questions honestly and directly.
In the end, they informed me that they had selected other candidates who were deemed more suitable for the role. When I requested specific feedback regarding the qualities in which I fell short compared to the chosen candidates, they mentioned a lack of design experience.
However, the job description only mentioned working collaboratively with a design team, which is a common responsibility for Product Managers. I had also highlighted my relevant experience in multiple roles during the interview, and my LinkedIn profile and CV clearly outline my design-related experience. Therefore, I believe their feedback was not entirely honest, or lacked preparation to take a look at my profile more thoroughly. They are currently seeking new candidates for the position, and by the amount of repeated posting and reposting of the position by internal employees, it is posing as a challenge.
What I believe eliminated me from the selection from the first interview is that I rubbed the HR person the wrong way. I sought information about the company's internal culture during the first interview. Specifically, I asked about the characteristics and traits that define an exemplary Productive employee. A standard question as "what is your culture like" typically leads you nowhere. However, the HR representative interpreted my question as an attack and asserted that everyone at Productive is exceptionally productive and equal, switching to talk of DEI. To clarify why I was asking, I further inquired about employee evaluation and feedback processes, to indicate it naturally leads to some differentiation among employees, the HR representative deflected, and the conversation and selection process deteriorated from there.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
The questions were quite standard, such as introducing myself, inquiring about my approach to managing conflicting priorities or workplace conflicts, understanding my interest in the position, assessing my knowledge of the product, seeking my feedback on the product, and identifying potential challenges I might encounter in relation to the product.
I applied online. The process took 1 week. I interviewed at Productive (CA) (Zagreb) in Aug 2022
Interview
Pleasant 45 minute talk and initial selection interview with Frontend Tech Lead and Talent Acquisition Specialist. The role required on-site work for unspecified amount of time so we concluded to discontinue the interview process.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
General questions about previous working experiences, projects and Front End technologies.
I applied online. The process took 1 week. I interviewed at Productive (CA) (Zagreb)
Interview
During the interview process, I was asked typical HR questions, such as inquiring about my previous work experience, future career goals, and the reasons why did chose to apply for the position.