When I was applying to PM positions as a new-grad, I wasn't tuned in to the massive network of PM interview prep resources. Now on the other side as both an interviewer and a PM interview resource creator, I can honestly say that Exponent is one of the most complete and impressive resources I've come across.
Founded by Stephen Cognetta, a former Google APM, Exponent’s PM Interview Prep course has 200 interactive lessons, 50+ hours of video instruction, access to a community for mock interviews, and more.
I've recently chatted with Stephen and we collaborated on a mock interview (embedded below) to help inspire your own preparation. This is just one of many free, publically availble resources by Exponent for all to enjoy (see the rest on their YouTube Channel).
Exponent also has a paid tier that provides further access to even more in-depth resources. Paying for anything is an inherently tough proposition for job seekers. In that light, I'd like to share two of my own thoughts on the topic:
1. Costs don't exist in isolation. Think of it as an investment bet, like stocks.
If a $200 resource makes it even just 5% more likely that you will land a job (average junior PM salary is $60K), that turns into a $3K return, or 15x on your initial investment.
2. Pay for things you want to exist.
Originally a LinkedIn post of mine, copied below
Ironically, I, a PM in tech, was adverse to paying for software. Logically I understood the argument that a monthly subscription to a service costs less than a cup of coffee, and the value I receive is undeniably greater. But in my mind, an extra feature just didn't feel like it was worth it.
Well, stop it.
Software costs money. I, of all people, should know that. It takes time, it takes effort, and it's hard to make.
My five dollars isn't just a transaction to unlock an extra feature. It pays back the developer's time. It pays for the servers, the assets, the software they used to make the app in the first place.
And if it's a subscription? That's the holy grail. You're paying for all of the above, plus future development. A direct, recurring revenue model sets a company up for sustainability down the road. Your dollars are ensuring that the software you enjoy will continue to exist.
I'm not advocating that you pay for every piece of software that you use. But if there's something you would miss if it was gone, if there's something you rely on, something you wish was just a liiitle bit better, you should think about supporting it.
Don't think of subscriptions as a cost. Think of them as investments.
Go check out Exponent (tryexponent.com), make the most of their public materials, and if you want more, consider investing in yourself.
And of course, take a look at the mock interview Stephen and I recorded!