Cisco Product Manager Interview Questions & Experience Guide

Interview Preparation
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81

Company Name: Cisco

Position: Product Manager

Application Process: Applied through the company’s career portal. The process had a quick turnaround, and the interviews were scheduled promptly after the initial screening.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - HR Screening:

    • Questions Asked: General questions about my background, why I was interested in the role, and my understanding of the product management role at Cisco.
    • Your Approach: I kept my answers concise and aligned them with the job description, emphasizing my relevant experiences and enthusiasm for the role.
    • Outcome: Passed this round and moved to the next stage.

  • Round 2 - Panel Interview:

    • Questions Asked: More in-depth questions about my previous work experiences, challenges faced, and how I handled them. Also, situational questions about product management scenarios.
    • Your Approach: I used the STAR method to structure my responses, providing clear examples of my problem-solving and collaboration skills.
    • Outcome: Successfully advanced to the next round.

  • Round 3 - Hiring Manager Interview:

    • Questions Asked: Focused on my ability to contribute to the team’s current goals, my understanding of Cisco’s products, and how I would approach specific product challenges.
    • Your Approach: I researched Cisco’s product portfolio beforehand and linked my past experiences to potential contributions. I also asked clarifying questions to show my interest.
    • Outcome: Positive feedback and moved to the final round.

  • Round 4 - Director-Level Interview:

    • Questions Asked: High-level questions about product strategy, leadership, and how I would align with Cisco’s long-term vision.
    • Your Approach: I highlighted my strategic thinking and leadership experiences, tying them to Cisco’s goals. I also demonstrated my passion for innovation.
    • Outcome: Received an offer for the role.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research the company’s products and recent news to speak knowledgeably during interviews.
  • Practice the STAR method for behavioral questions.
  • Be ready to discuss how your past experiences align with the role’s responsibilities.

Conclusion:
The entire process was smooth and conversational, with a strong focus on fit and contribution. I appreciated the clarity of expectations at each stage. For future candidates, I’d recommend thoroughly preparing for behavioral and situational questions and showing genuine enthusiasm for the company and role.

82

Company Name: Cisco

Position: Product Manager

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: The application process involved multiple interviews, with most being conducted remotely via phone or video conference. Only one round was in-person. The company emphasized a relaxed and informal atmosphere throughout the process.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Initial Screening (Phone/Video):

  • Questions Asked: Basic questions about the company, its recent news, and the role of a Product Manager at Cisco.

  • Your Approach: I prepared by researching Cisco’s recent financials, product launches, and global presence. I also brushed up on Product Management fundamentals.

  • Outcome: Passed to the next round.

  • Round 2 - Technical/Product Knowledge (Video):

  • Questions Asked: Questions about product lifecycle, stakeholder management, and how I would handle specific product-related scenarios.

  • Your Approach: I used real-world examples from my experience to explain my thought process and problem-solving skills.

  • Outcome: Advanced to the next stage.

  • Round 3 - Behavioral/Cultural Fit (Video):

  • Questions Asked: Questions about teamwork, conflict resolution, and how I align with Cisco’s values.

  • Your Approach: I shared personal anecdotes that demonstrated my adaptability and collaborative spirit.

  • Outcome: Positive feedback and moved forward.

  • Round 4 - Case Study (Video):

  • Questions Asked: A hypothetical product launch scenario where I had to outline a strategy, including market analysis and go-to-market plans.

  • Your Approach: I structured my response using frameworks like SWOT and Porter’s Five Forces, ensuring clarity and feasibility.

  • Outcome: Successfully cleared the round.

  • Round 5 - Final Interview (In-Person):

  • Questions Asked: A mix of technical, behavioral, and situational questions, including how I would prioritize features for a new product.

  • Your Approach: I balanced technical insights with business acumen, emphasizing user-centric decision-making.

  • Outcome: Received an offer!

Preparation Tips:

  • Research Cisco’s recent financial reports, product news, and global impact.
  • Brush up on Product Management frameworks (e.g., SWOT, Porter’s Five Forces).
  • Practice answering behavioral questions with the STAR method.
  • Be ready for informal yet insightful conversations—Cisco values authenticity.

Conclusion:
The interview process at Cisco was thorough but enjoyable. The informal and friendly atmosphere made it less stressful, and the focus on real-world scenarios was refreshing. I could have prepared more case studies in advance, but overall, I felt well-prepared. My advice: know the company inside out, stay authentic, and enjoy the process!

83

Company Name: Cisco

Position: Product Manager

Application Process: Applied through the company’s career portal. The process involved multiple interviews, but the overall experience felt lackluster.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Hiring Manager Interview:

    • Questions Asked: General questions about my background, experience, and interest in the role. However, the interviewer seemed disengaged.
    • Your Approach: I tried to keep the conversation engaging by asking questions about the team and product, but the interviewer’s responses were minimal.
    • Outcome: Passed, but the interaction left me unsure about the role.

  • Round 2 - Team Interview:

    • Questions Asked: More detailed questions about my past projects and how I would handle certain product scenarios. Again, the interviewers seemed uninterested.
    • Your Approach: I focused on providing structured answers and showcasing my problem-solving skills, but the lack of enthusiasm from the interviewers made it difficult.
    • Outcome: Passed, but the experience was underwhelming.

  • Round 3 - Final Interview:

    • Questions Asked: A mix of behavioral and situational questions. One interviewer arrived late, which added to the overall negative impression.
    • Your Approach: I maintained professionalism and answered the questions thoroughly, despite the lack of engagement from the interviewers.
    • Outcome: Received an offer, but ultimately declined due to the poor interview experience.

Conclusion:
The interview process with Cisco for the Product Manager role was disappointing. The lack of enthusiasm from the interviewers and the overall disorganization made me question the company’s culture and the role itself. If you’re interviewing with Cisco, I’d recommend paying close attention to the interviewers’ engagement levels—it might give you insights into the team dynamics. While the offer was there, the experience left much to be desired.

84

Company Name: Cisco

Position: Product Manager

Application Process: Applied through an online application process. The entire process was very long and drawn out, spanning approximately 8 weeks. I interviewed for two different roles sequentially, but the final offer was significantly lower than my current salary at the time. Unfortunately, this made the entire experience feel like a waste of time and energy for everyone involved.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Initial Screening:

    • Questions Asked: General questions about my background, experience, and interest in the role.
    • Your Approach: I highlighted my relevant experience and enthusiasm for the role.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the next round.

  • Round 2 - Technical/Product Discussion:

    • Questions Asked: Questions about product management methodologies, past projects, and how I would handle specific scenarios.
    • Your Approach: I discussed my previous work in detail and provided examples of how I tackled challenges.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the next stage.

  • Round 3 - Team Fit Interview:

    • Questions Asked: Behavioral questions and how I would collaborate with cross-functional teams.
    • Your Approach: I emphasized my teamwork and communication skills, sharing specific examples.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the final round.

  • Round 4 - Final Offer Discussion:

    • Questions Asked: Salary expectations and role fit.
    • Your Approach: I was transparent about my current salary and expectations.
    • Outcome: Received an offer that was significantly lower than my current salary, leading me to decline.

Conclusion:
The interview process was thorough but overly lengthy, and the final offer did not meet my expectations. If you’re considering Cisco, be prepared for a long process and ensure clarity on salary expectations early on to avoid disappointment.

85

Company Name: Cisco

Position: Product Manager

Application Process: The interview process was conducted through individual meetings with multiple interviewers. The application method (e.g., campus placement, online, referral) was not specified.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - General Interview:
    • Questions Asked: The interviewers did not ask many job-specific questions. The focus was more on general topics and fit.
    • Your Approach: I tried to stay relaxed and answer the questions honestly, focusing on my overall experience and how it aligns with the role.
    • Outcome: The round went as expected, but no specific feedback was mentioned.

(Additional rounds were not detailed in the provided information.)

Conclusion:

The interview process was straightforward and aligned with expectations. While the questions weren’t highly technical or role-specific, it was important to demonstrate a good fit for the company culture and the broader responsibilities of a Product Manager. For future candidates, I’d recommend preparing for general behavioral questions and being ready to discuss your overall experience and problem-solving approach.

86

Company Name: Cisco

Position: Product Manager

Application Process: Applied through an online job portal.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Technical/HR Screening:
    • Questions Asked:
      • What projects have you managed before?
      • What do you know about Cisco and project management?
    • Your Approach:
      • Highlighted past project management experiences, focusing on leadership, problem-solving, and outcomes.
      • Researched Cisco’s products and culture beforehand to align my answers with their expectations.
    • Outcome:
      • Advanced to the next round.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research the company thoroughly, especially its products and values.
  • Be ready to discuss past projects in detail, emphasizing your role and impact.

Conclusion:
The interview was straightforward but required a clear understanding of project management principles and Cisco’s ecosystem. Being prepared with specific examples and company knowledge helped me progress.

87

Company Name: Cisco

Position: Product Manager

Application Process: The application process involved multiple interviews before receiving an invitation to the next section. This eventually led to a day-long interview session.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Initial Screening:

    • Questions Asked: General questions about my background, experience, and interest in the role.
    • Your Approach: I focused on aligning my past experiences with the responsibilities of a Product Manager and emphasized my problem-solving skills.
    • Outcome: Successfully moved to the next round.

  • Round 2 - Technical/Behavioral Interview:

    • Questions Asked: Questions about my technical understanding of product management, such as how I would prioritize features or handle stakeholder feedback.
    • Your Approach: I used the STAR method to structure my answers and provided examples from my previous projects.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the final round.

  • Round 3 - Day-Long Interview:

    • Questions Asked: A mix of personality-based questions, ethical dilemmas, conflict resolution scenarios, and day-to-day job responsibilities. For example, “How would you handle a situation where a stakeholder disagrees with your product decision?”
    • Your Approach: I remained calm and structured my responses to showcase my ability to balance empathy with assertiveness. I also highlighted my ethical framework and problem-solving approach.
    • Outcome: Awaiting results.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice the STAR method for behavioral questions.
  • Brush up on product management frameworks like prioritization techniques (e.g., RICE, MoSCoW).
  • Reflect on past experiences to articulate how you handled conflicts or ethical dilemmas.

Conclusion:
The interview process was thorough and tested both technical and soft skills. I felt well-prepared for the behavioral questions but realized I could have spent more time researching Cisco-specific product challenges. For future candidates, I’d recommend tailoring your answers to the company’s culture and products.

88

Company Name: Cisco

Position: Product Manager

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: The candidate applied through an internal process, having previously worked at Cisco.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Initial Interview:

  • Questions Asked: Details not specified.

  • Your Approach: The candidate did not provide specifics about their approach.

  • Outcome: Passed to the next round.

  • Round 2 - Follow-up Interview:

  • Questions Asked: Details not specified.

  • Your Approach: The candidate did not provide specifics about their approach.

  • Outcome: Passed to the next round.

  • Round 3 - Final Interview:

  • Questions Asked: Details not specified.

  • Your Approach: The candidate did not provide specifics about their approach.

  • Outcome: Awaiting decision; no response from the recruiter or team despite follow-ups.

Preparation Tips: Not provided.

Conclusion:
The overall experience was frustrating due to the lack of communication and prolonged delays between rounds. Despite the candidate’s prior experience with Cisco, the recruitment process was poorly managed, leaving a negative impression. Future candidates should be prepared for potential delays and follow up persistently for updates.

89

Company Name: Cisco

Position: Product Manager

Application Process: Applied through the company’s career portal.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Resume-Based Interview:
    • Questions Asked:
      • Can you walk us through your resume and highlight key projects?
      • What were your responsibilities in your past internships?
      • How do you approach problem-solving in a team setting?
    • Your Approach: I focused on clearly explaining my projects, emphasizing my role and the impact of my work. For the internship question, I highlighted specific tasks I handled and what I learned. For problem-solving, I shared an example of a collaborative project and how we tackled challenges.
    • Outcome: The interviewer seemed satisfied with my responses and provided an overview of the new grad process at Cisco.

Preparation Tips:

  • Review your resume thoroughly and be ready to discuss every detail.
  • Practice explaining your projects and experiences concisely.
  • Prepare examples of teamwork and problem-solving scenarios.

Conclusion:
The interview was relaxed and conversational, which made it easier to share my experiences. I felt confident about my answers, but I could have prepared more questions about the role and team dynamics. Overall, it was a positive experience, and I’d advise future candidates to focus on clear communication and storytelling about their resume.

90

Company Name: Cisco

Position: Product Manager

Application Process: The process involved resume screening, followed by a functional interview, and finally an assessment center with role-play and interviews.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Resume Screening:

  • Questions Asked: General review of my resume to assess fit for the role.

  • Your Approach: Ensured my resume highlighted relevant experience and skills for the Product Manager role.

  • Outcome: Passed to the next round.

  • Round 2 - Functional Interview:

  • Questions Asked: Questions about my experience, problem-solving skills, and how I approach product management challenges.

  • Your Approach: Used the STAR method to structure my answers and provided concrete examples from my past experiences.

  • Outcome: Advanced to the assessment center.

  • Round 3 - Assessment Center (Role-Play & Interview):

  • Questions Asked: Simulated a product management scenario where I had to make decisions and justify them. Also, behavioral and situational questions.

  • Your Approach: Stayed calm, thought critically, and communicated my reasoning clearly during the role-play. For the interview, I aligned my answers with the company’s values and goals.

  • Outcome: The interviewers were impressed with my performance.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research the company’s products and culture thoroughly.
  • Practice the STAR method for behavioral questions.
  • Mock role-plays can help prepare for the assessment center.

Conclusion:
Overall, it was a long but enjoyable process. The interviewers were experienced and friendly, which made the experience less stressful. I felt well-prepared, but practicing more role-plays beforehand could have made me even more confident. For future candidates, I’d recommend focusing on both technical and behavioral preparation to ace all rounds.

91

Company Name: Cisco

Position: Product Manager

Application Process: I applied for the role through an online application process. The initial screening seemed to focus on aligning my experience with the company’s needs.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Initial Discussion:

    • Questions Asked: The interviewers were excited to discuss the role with someone familiar with the organization and its processes. They asked about my understanding of the company’s operations and how I would fit into the Product Manager role.
    • Your Approach: I highlighted my prior knowledge of Cisco’s workflows and how my skills could bridge any gaps in their current processes. I also asked clarifying questions to understand their expectations better.
    • Outcome: The interviewers seemed interested and eager to move quickly to the next steps.

  • Round 2 - Leadership Interaction:

    • Questions Asked: The leadership team asked about my experience with product management, particularly in areas where they lacked detailed knowledge of their own operations or history. They were curious about how I would handle such gaps.
    • Your Approach: I shared examples from my past roles where I had to quickly familiarize myself with unfamiliar processes and lead teams through transitions. I emphasized adaptability and problem-solving.
    • Outcome: The discussion was engaging, and they appreciated my proactive approach to addressing their concerns.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research the company’s recent projects and challenges to speak confidently about their operations.
  • Be ready to discuss how you can add value even in areas where the company might lack clarity or historical context.
  • Practice explaining your past experiences in a way that demonstrates adaptability and leadership.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was insightful. The interviewers were keen to find someone who could hit the ground running, and I felt my preparation paid off. If I could do anything differently, I might have dug deeper into Cisco’s specific pain points beforehand to tailor my responses even more. For future candidates, I’d recommend being prepared to think on your feet and show how you can contribute from day one.

92

Company Name: Cisco

Position: Product Manager

Application Process: Applied through the company’s career portal. The process was straightforward, and I received a response within a couple of weeks for the initial screening.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Recruiter Screening:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Tell me about yourself.
      • Why are you interested in this role at Cisco?
      • What experience do you have in product management?
    • Your Approach: I kept my answers concise and aligned them with the job description, highlighting relevant experience and enthusiasm for the role.
    • Outcome: Passed to the next round.

  • Round 2 - Project Management Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Describe a product you managed from inception to launch.
      • How do you prioritize features for a product?
      • How do you handle conflicts between stakeholders?
    • Your Approach: I used the STAR method to structure my responses, focusing on real examples from my past work. I also emphasized collaboration and data-driven decision-making.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the final round.

  • Round 3 - PMO Director Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • How do you align product strategy with business goals?
      • What metrics do you track to measure product success?
      • How do you handle a situation where a product is not meeting its KPIs?
    • Your Approach: I tied my answers to strategic thinking and adaptability, showcasing my ability to pivot and align with business objectives.
    • Outcome: Received positive feedback and an offer.

Preparation Tips:

  • Reviewed Cisco’s product portfolio and recent news to understand their market positioning.
  • Practiced answering behavioral and situational questions using the STAR method.
  • Brushed up on product management frameworks like Agile and Lean methodologies.

Conclusion:
The interview process was smooth and well-structured. I felt prepared, but I could have researched more about Cisco’s specific product challenges to tailor my answers better. My advice for future candidates is to focus on aligning your experience with the company’s goals and to practice articulating your thought process clearly.

93

Company Name: Cisco

Position: Product Manager

Application Process: Applied through the company’s career portal. The process involved three rounds, with the final round being onsite.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Junior PM Interview:

    • Questions Asked: Product-related questions and behavioral questions. The focus was on understanding my approach to product management and problem-solving.
    • Your Approach: I prepared by reviewing common product management frameworks and practicing behavioral questions using the STAR method.
    • Outcome: Passed this round and moved to the next stage.

  • Round 2 - Junior PM Interview:

    • Questions Asked: Similar to the first round but with more depth on product strategy and execution.
    • Your Approach: I emphasized my ability to align product decisions with business goals and user needs.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared this round as well.

  • Round 3 - Onsite Interview with Senior PMs:

    • Questions Asked: Group interview with a product design question. The senior PMs evaluated my ability to collaborate and think critically about product design.
    • Your Approach: I focused on clear communication, teamwork, and structured thinking during the design exercise.
    • Outcome: The final decision is pending, but the feedback was positive.

Preparation Tips:

  • Study product management frameworks like AARRR, RICE, and HEART.
  • Practice behavioral questions using the STAR method.
  • Be ready to discuss past product experiences in detail.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was thorough and engaging. I felt well-prepared, but I could have spent more time practicing group exercises. For future candidates, I recommend focusing on both technical and behavioral aspects of product management.

94

Company Name: Cisco

Position: Product Manager

Application Process: I applied through a recruiter who was assisting the hiring manager in finding a suitable candidate.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Phone Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Can you walk us through your past experience relevant to this role?
      • Why do you want to work at Cisco?
    • Your Approach: I focused on highlighting my relevant experience and aligning my career goals with Cisco’s mission and values.
    • Outcome: Passed to the next round.

  • Round 2 - Phone Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • How do you handle cross-functional collaboration in your current role?
      • What challenges have you faced as a Product Manager, and how did you overcome them?
    • Your Approach: I provided specific examples of my work, emphasizing problem-solving and teamwork.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the in-person interview.

  • Round 3 - In-Person Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Describe a product you managed from ideation to launch.
      • How do you prioritize features in a product roadmap?
    • Your Approach: I shared a detailed case study of a product I managed, focusing on strategy, execution, and results.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared the round and received an offer.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research Cisco’s products and culture to tailor your answers.
  • Prepare specific examples from your past experience to demonstrate your skills.
  • Practice explaining your thought process clearly and concisely.

Conclusion:
The interview process was smooth, and the questions were fairly generic but required thoughtful responses. I made sure to align my answers with Cisco’s values and showcase my problem-solving abilities. For future candidates, I’d recommend being well-prepared with real-life examples and understanding the company’s products and mission.

95

Company Name: Cisco

Position: Product Manager

Location: [Location (if applicable)]

Application Process: [Brief description of how the student applied]

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Technical Interview (Resume-Based):

  • Questions Asked: [List of questions asked in this round]

  • Your Approach: [The candidate’s approach or strategy to answer the questions]

  • Outcome: [Result of this round]

  • Round 2 - Technical Interview (Case Studies and Behavioral):

  • Questions Asked:

  • Your Approach:

  • Outcome:

  • Round 3 - HR Interview:

  • Questions Asked:

  • Your Approach:

  • Outcome:

Preparation Tips:
[Any tips or resources the student found helpful]

Conclusion:
[A summary of the overall experience and any final advice]

96

Company Name: Cisco

Position: Product Manager

Location: Frankfurt

Application Process: Applied through an online process, followed by a screening call via Skype and an invitation to a full-day assessment center in Frankfurt.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Screening Call (Skype):

  • Questions Asked: General questions about my background, experience, and interest in the role.

  • Your Approach: I focused on aligning my experience with the role requirements and demonstrating my enthusiasm for the position.

  • Outcome: Passed and invited to the assessment center.

  • Round 2 - Full-Day Assessment Center:

  • Questions Asked: A mix of behavioral, situational, and technical questions related to product management. Tasks included case studies and group exercises.

  • Your Approach: I tried to stay structured in my responses, actively participated in group tasks, and ensured my contributions were relevant and impactful.

  • Outcome: The process was rigid, with no flexibility despite two candidates not showing up. The office environment felt outdated, and the tasks were quite extensive.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on case study frameworks and situational judgment scenarios.
  • Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, as the assessment center was very structured.

Conclusion:
The overall experience was mixed. While the questions were fair, the rigid adherence to the protocol and the outdated office vibe were off-putting. Additionally, the reimbursement for travel expenses was delayed (still unpaid after 4 months). My advice: prepare thoroughly for the assessment center and be ready for a very formal and structured process.

97

Company Name: Cisco

Position: Product Manager

Application Process: The process began with an initial call with an HR recruiter, followed by an interview with the hiring manager. If successful, candidates proceed to interviews with several team members. The next stage involves a take-home project, and the final round is a presentation of the project to the hiring manager.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - HR Recruiter Call:

  • Questions Asked: General questions about my background, experience, and interest in the role. The recruiter also discussed the company culture and expectations for the position.

  • Your Approach: I focused on aligning my experience with the role’s requirements and expressed genuine enthusiasm for the opportunity.

  • Outcome: Moved to the next round.

  • Round 2 - Hiring Manager Interview:

  • Questions Asked: More detailed questions about my product management experience, problem-solving skills, and how I handle cross-functional collaboration. The hiring manager also asked about my familiarity with Cisco’s products and market.

  • Your Approach: I provided specific examples from my past roles to demonstrate my skills and showed how my approach aligns with Cisco’s goals.

  • Outcome: Advanced to the next stage.

  • Round 3 - Team Interviews:

  • Questions Asked: Technical and behavioral questions from various team members, including product strategy, stakeholder management, and scenario-based challenges.

  • Your Approach: I tailored my responses to highlight collaboration and strategic thinking, ensuring I addressed each team member’s concerns.

  • Outcome: Selected for the take-home project.

  • Round 4 - Take-Home Project:

  • Tasks Assigned: A real-world product management challenge requiring a detailed solution, including a presentation deck.

  • Your Approach: I dedicated time to research, structured my solution logically, and ensured clarity in my presentation.

  • Outcome: Invited to present the project in the final round.

  • Round 5 - Final Presentation:

  • Questions Asked: The hiring manager and team asked probing questions about my project, including assumptions, alternatives considered, and scalability.

  • Your Approach: I defended my decisions confidently and welcomed feedback, showing adaptability.

  • Outcome: Received positive feedback and an offer.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research Cisco’s products and market positioning thoroughly.
  • Practice articulating your product management experiences with clear examples.
  • For the take-home project, focus on structure, clarity, and feasibility.

Conclusion:
The process was rigorous but well-structured. I appreciated the opportunity to showcase my skills through the project. If I could improve anything, I’d spend more time understanding Cisco’s internal tools beforehand. My advice: be confident, stay authentic, and prepare thoroughly for each stage.

98

Company Name: Cisco

Position: Product Manager

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: I applied through an online application process. The hiring process was thorough but could take some time, so patience is key.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - General Screening:

  • Questions Asked: Questions were focused on my background, past experiences, and how they align with the Product Manager role.

  • Your Approach: I highlighted my relevant experiences and skills, ensuring I connected them to the responsibilities of a Product Manager.

  • Outcome: I passed this round and moved on to the next stage.

  • Round 2 - Behavioral Interview:

  • Questions Asked: This round delved deeper into my soft skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork. Questions included scenarios where I had to demonstrate leadership and conflict resolution.

  • Your Approach: I used the STAR method to structure my answers, providing clear examples from my past experiences.

  • Outcome: Successfully cleared this round as well.

  • Round 3 - Technical/Product Knowledge:

  • Questions Asked: This round tested my understanding of product management concepts, market analysis, and strategy. I was also asked to analyze a hypothetical product scenario.

  • Your Approach: I relied on my prior knowledge and practical experience, breaking down the scenario logically and proposing actionable solutions.

  • Outcome: Passed this round and advanced to the final stage.

  • Round 4 - Final Interview with Senior Leadership:

  • Questions Asked: This was a high-level discussion about my vision for the role, long-term goals, and how I could contribute to Cisco’s product strategy.

  • Your Approach: I aligned my answers with Cisco’s mission and values, emphasizing my passion for product innovation.

  • Outcome: Received positive feedback and an offer for the role.

Preparation Tips:

  • Prepare detailed examples of past experiences that showcase both your soft and hard skills relevant to the position.
  • Use the STAR method for behavioral questions to structure your answers clearly.
  • Brush up on product management fundamentals, market analysis, and strategy frameworks.
  • Research Cisco’s products and values to align your responses with their culture.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process at Cisco was comprehensive but rewarding. The key was to demonstrate a balance of technical knowledge and soft skills. I recommend staying patient throughout the process and thoroughly preparing for each round. Good luck to future candidates!

99

Company Name: Cisco

Position: Product Manager

Location: San Jose (for final round)

Application Process: The application process was smooth and well-structured. The initial rounds were conducted on campus, and selected candidates were flown to San Jose for the final round.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - PM Core Skills Interview:

    • Questions Asked: Focused on core product management skills, such as prioritization, stakeholder management, and problem-solving.
    • Your Approach: I emphasized my experience in product management, using specific examples to demonstrate my ability to prioritize features and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
    • Outcome: Passed to the next round.

  • Round 2 - Cultural Fit Interview:

    • Questions Asked: Questions revolved around teamwork, adaptability, and alignment with Cisco’s values.
    • Your Approach: I shared personal anecdotes highlighting my ability to work in diverse teams and adapt to changing environments.
    • Outcome: Passed to the final round.

  • Round 3 - Final Round (San Jose):

    • Questions Asked: Three back-to-back interviews with PMs, covering case studies, product strategy, and behavioral questions.
    • Your Approach: I prepared thoroughly by reviewing PM frameworks and practicing case studies. During the interviews, I structured my answers clearly and aligned them with Cisco’s product vision.
    • Outcome: Awaiting results.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on core PM skills like prioritization, stakeholder management, and product strategy.
  • Practice case studies and be ready to discuss real-world product challenges.
  • Research Cisco’s products and culture to align your answers with their values.

Conclusion:
The interview process was well-organized and gave me a chance to showcase my skills. I felt confident in my preparation, but I could have practiced more case studies to refine my responses. For future candidates, I’d recommend thorough preparation and staying calm during the interviews.

100

Company Name: Cisco

Position: Product Manager

Application Process: The process began after meeting the recruiters at a career fair. It took about a month from the initial interaction to receiving the offer.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - One-on-One Interview:

    • Questions Asked: The interviewer asked about my background, experience, and why I was interested in the Product Manager role at Cisco. There were also situational questions about how I would handle specific product-related challenges.
    • Your Approach: I focused on aligning my past experiences with the responsibilities of a Product Manager. For situational questions, I used the STAR method to structure my answers clearly.
    • Outcome: I passed this round and was invited to the next stage.

  • Round 2 - Panel Interview:

    • Questions Asked: This round involved a panel of interviewers who asked more in-depth questions about product strategy, stakeholder management, and how I would prioritize features for a product. They also gave a case study to solve on the spot.
    • Your Approach: I remained calm and took a structured approach to the case study, breaking it down into smaller parts. For strategy questions, I emphasized data-driven decision-making and user-centric thinking.
    • Outcome: The panel seemed satisfied with my responses, and I received a positive outcome.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on product management frameworks like the Kano Model, MoSCoW Method, and SWOT analysis.
  • Practice case studies and situational questions using the STAR method.
  • Research Cisco’s products and recent news to tailor your answers to their context.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was thorough but fair. I felt well-prepared, but I could have practiced more case studies to feel even more confident. My advice to future candidates is to focus on clear communication and to always tie your answers back to the company’s goals and products.