I applied online. The process took 2 weeks. I interviewed at Aha! (Raleigh, NC) in Apr 2018
Interview
While I was interviewing at other companies for senior product management roles, Aha! reached out to me about joining the customer success team. I was somewhat familiar with the product and was a fan of their articles and thought leadership. The role and company were intriguing, so I decided to talk to them and learn more, even though I wasn't sure about 'leaving' product management.
I quickly had a nice video chat with someone on the People Success team. At the end of the call, he scheduled me to have a video call with a group manager the next day - fast!
The conversation with the group manager was great - we talked a lot about the role and how experienced product managers have happily transitioned into it. Her love of the job and company helped to allay my concerns about 'leaving' product management. It really comes down to what you enjoy most about being a product manager. You'll love the job if you are passionate about solving customers pains and helping fellow product managers become rock stars.
Next I spoke with the head of customer success and then the CEO. We covered general product management questions, my background, and what I'm looking for. I could tell that they were genuinely interested in me and finding out if I would be happy in customer success.
A few things I picked up on in the interviews that I have since learned are pervasive across the company:
- They move fast, have their stuff together, and expect the same from you.
- You'll always know where you stand at the end of an interview and the people are very engaging, which always left me feeling valued and respected.
- Everyone truly does love working at Aha!
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
How did you work with customers as a product manager?
I applied online. The process took 2 weeks. I interviewed at Aha!
Interview
The process was very organized and efficient. I met with 4 different people via video interview over the course of 2 weeks and I never felt like I was having to repeat myself. It was clear that each person had a specific area of focus. The questions were thought-provoking and steered clear of the clichéd "Where do you want to be in 5 years?" It was clear that the structure was designed to give them a chance to let you talk and get to know how you communicate, think on your feet and respond to different conversation types all while gathering more information about your experience. They very much were looking for personality as well as skill.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Because remote teams are the Aha! culture they asked me about my experience with and thoughts about working on a 100% remote team.
The process took 3 days. I interviewed at Aha! (New York, NY)
Interview
After submitting resume, I received a response right away to set up an interview.
The recruiter was prompt and professional during our conversation - which went well. She was honest about my strengths and weaknesses compared to the position.
I received a response the next day that they would not be moving forward for the reasons that she already mentioned.
I was admittedly light on experience compared to the req, and they were respectful and prompt during the process. Not much more you can ask for.
I applied through an employee referral. The process took 1 week. I interviewed at Aha! (Atlanta, GA)
Interview
First thing to realize is that all interviews are via video, so best to prepare accordingly. This was explained well in the setup email/calls.
I had a preliminary call/interview, followed by (I think) three more within a week to a week and a half (pretty sure it would have been quicker but I was unavailable for a couple of recommended timeslots). Very aggressive but also welcome because I was really...really ready to leave my former position. The initial call was a screening call...I felt that...the whole thing could have ended there so every interaction is critical. This initial call also explained the entire process and let me know what to expect every step of the way.
The interviews themselves were pleasant, but challenging. The people you interview with are true experts in every sense of the word and will challenge you. But, then again, I was looking for challenging work so that was fine with me.
I never had a doubt as to where I stood...if I was being moved on or if the process was over. There was always a very short (if at all) timeframe before I was told I'd have another interview or not. Having withstood previous interviewing black holes, this was appreciated. I made it through but I'm also aware that those who don't are informed as quickly as possible and treated with respect...always thanked for taking the time out of their schedule to participate.
As a quick summary I would say that this interview process was the most professionally conducted I've been involved with (from either side of the table). Knowing so quickly if you're moving on or not is such a respectful thing to do - but many other companies fail to do this.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
I see you managed a SaaS product in the past, can you share some details around your customer interactions during that role?