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How to Get Into the Google APM Program (2024)

The Associate Product Manager Program at Google is one of the best, and most competitive, paths to a successful career as a PM. This article outlines the application process and provides key tips to help you stand out.

Posted November 4, 2024

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Product Case Interview Prep: “What’s Your Favorite Product?”

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What is the google apm program.

The Google APM (Associate Product Manager) program is a two-year rotational program that provides recent graduates and early-career professionals with the opportunity to learn from experienced product managers at Google. As an APM, you'll work on real products, gain hands-on experience, and develop the skills you need to become a successful product manager.

The Google APM application is typically open in the winter. Here are some popular product coaches with experience at Google:

Arianna : Former Senior Product Manager at Google and Hiring Manager, Princeton BA
Steven : Former Emerging Products at Google, PMM at Instagram, Harvard Business School MBA
Connor : Former Product Marketing at Google; Ex-Tesla, Meta, and YouTube; Stanford GSB MBA

Product Management Technical Guide

Download our free guide to learn everything you need to know about technical skills for product management.

Who is eligible to apply?

To be eligible for the program, you'll need to have a bachelor's degree in a technical area such as computer science, engineering, or a related field. You should also be able to demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills as well as excellent communication and collaboration abilities. These requirements are designed to ensure that APMs have the traits necessary to succeed in the program and as product managers.

The Google APM Program: Application Overview (2023-2024)

Application Opens: Usually around October
Application Closes: Usually around late October to early November

The Google Associate Product Manager program is a highly sought-after opportunity for aspiring PMs. If you're interested in pursuing a career in product management and want to learn from some of the best in the business, this program is a great place to start.

In addition to the APM program, Google also has an Associate Product Marketing Management (APMM) program. It opened on May 28, 2024, and applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. The cohort will begin in September 2024. Apply here .

What Are APM Programs?

First, it's important to understand what APM programs are and what they entail. These programs almost always target those who are new to the world of product management, especially recent graduates. The field in general involves overseeing the development and lifecycle of a product, from ideation to market research, design, development, and launch. APMs typically support more senior product managers in conducting research, gathering feedback, and defining product requirements. These programs are great for receiving on-the-job training and mentorship.

Read: The 25 Best Entry-Level Associate Product Management (APM) Programs

Application Steps

If you meet the eligibility requirements, the next step is to apply to the program. When you apply, you'll need to submit a resume, transcripts, and a cover letter. In your cover letter, be sure to highlight your relevant experience and skills, as well as your passion for product management.

Once you've submitted your application, the next step is to pass the initial screening process. This typically involves a phone call with a recruiter or current Google Product Manager. If you pass the initial screening, you'll be invited to complete a written assessment and participate in the next round of interviews.

During the on-site/formal virtual interviews, you'll be evaluated on your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and communication skills. You'll also be asked to demonstrate your knowledge of product management and your passion for the field. Be prepared to discuss your experience, interests, and goals, and be sure to show enthusiasm and excitement for the APM program.

If you're successful in the on-site interviews, you'll be offered a spot in the APM program. Congratulations! The next step is to accept the offer and start your journey as an APM. As an APM, you'll work on real products, learn from experienced product managers, and develop the skills you need to become a successful PM.

Tips for the Google APM Program Application

On its official page for the APM program, Google offers a number of tips. They are: show empathy, communicate effectively, improve and iterate, manage your time, practice, and have fun. Here are a few additional ways that you can stand out during the application and interview process:

Understand Google as a company and its product – Your research for every product management interview should be tailored to that company. You’re applying to work directly on their product, and you should understand what that entails.
Showcase experience that is relevant to the job – Many people whp apply to this program won’t have explicit product management experience; however, you can still show the development of relevant skills in other roles. For example, did you work on a startup or start your own company? That experience will directly benefit you in PM positions.
Reach out to current or former employees – The best way to learn about what a job entails or what a company is like is to speak to someone who’s actually been there. Network with Google employees to learn about what it’s like to be a Google APM. This will help you demonstrate real enthusiasm for the opportunity.
Use data to support your points – Not only will this show that you understand the importance of data in product management, it will also make your answers more convincing.
Ask thoughtful questions – Remember, when you’re interviewing you’re simulating what it would actually be like to work with you. As an APM, you will be working closely with a team of peers to make impactful decisions. Don’t be afraid to collaborate and challenge existing assumptions.

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50+ Sample Product Management Interview Questions

Google-specific questions.

Product Sense

How would you improve the user experience of Google Maps for frequent travelers who want to discover local attractions and activities?
YouTube is facing concerns about ad placements next to controversial content. As an APM, what strategies would you propose to ensure brand safety for advertisers while maintaining a positive experience for content creators?
With the rise of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, how would you expand the capabilities of Google Assistant to better integrate with and control various smart home devices?
Google's search algorithm is a core part of its business. How would you approach launching a major update to the search algorithm to ensure that search results remain relevant and reliable while minimizing disruptions for users and businesses that rely on search traffic?
Tell me about a time when you had to manage a complex project with multiple stakeholders. How did you ensure effective execution and communication?
Google operates at a massive scale. How would you approach the execution of a project that needs to handle millions of users or data points? What challenges might arise?
Describe a situation where you encountered unexpected roadblocks during project execution. How did you adapt your strategy to overcome these challenges?
Google often launches products with a "beta" phase. How would you approach the execution of a project during its beta release, considering user feedback and iterative improvements?
Can you give an example of a project where you had to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively to meet tight deadlines? How did you ensure the quality of the work didn't suffer under time pressure?
At Google, cross-functional collaboration is essential. Describe an experience where you had to work with individuals from different teams or departments to ensure the successful execution of a project.
Tell me about a project where you had to make trade-offs between features, quality, and time. How did you make these decisions, and what was the outcome?
Google values data-driven decision-making. How would you approach the execution of a project when there is conflicting qualitative and quantitative data?
In a dynamic environment like Google, priorities can shift. Describe how you have handled a situation where the goals or priorities of a project changed midway through its execution.
Communication is crucial at Google. Can you share an example of a project where you needed to communicate complex technical details to a non-technical audience during execution?

Leadership and Drive

Tell me about a time when you demonstrated leadership skills in a team project. How did you motivate and guide your team?
Google values "Googliness," which includes attributes like a passion for technology, the ability to navigate ambiguity, and a collaborative spirit. Can you provide an example from your past experiences that showcases these qualities?
Google often works on projects that require cross-functional collaboration. Describe a situation where you had to work with individuals from different departments or disciplines to achieve a common goal. How did you handle any challenges that arose?
In a dynamic and fast-paced environment like Google, setbacks can occur. Can you share an instance where you faced a significant setback or failure? How did you bounce back from it and continue driving your project forward?
One of the aspects of leadership is guiding a team through change. Tell me about a time when you had to lead a team through a period of change or uncertainty. What strategies did you employ to ensure your team remained motivated and productive?

Other Resources to Break Into Product Management

Google-Specific

Liam Bolling - How to Get Into Product Management at Google From a Non-Tech Background (with a Google PM)
Lucy Yin - What I Learned as a Product Manager at Google
The Org - Life as a Product Manager at Amazon, Google, and Microsoft
Aha! – Product Management Guide
Udacity – Product Design by Google
Infinity – Practical Product Management Framework
Jeff Whitlock – The Beginner’s Guide to Product Management
Product School – The Ultimate Product Management Guide
Product Life – The Associate Product Manager Playbook
Roadmunk – 10+ Free Customizable Product Roadmap Templates
UpGrad – How to Crack the PM Interview

Ace Your Google Product Interviews With the Help of an Expert

The Google APM program is a fantastic opportunity for aspiring PMs. If you're interested in pursuing a career in product management and want to learn from titans of industry, the APM program is a great place to start. The best way to land a top product management role is to work one-on-one with a coach who can provide personalized guidance and expertise. Below are some of our top coaches with PM experience at top companies; browse all of them here .

Here are a few resources you may find helpful as you network, research, and prep for interviews.

How to Develop Product Sense as a Product Manager
How to Nail the Atlassian APM Interview Process
The Top MBA Programs for Product Management
How to Get Into the Facebook/Meta APM Program
Tips from an Expert: How to Nail Your PM Interview

How to Get Into the IBM Associate Product Manager (APM) Program

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Leland coaches have helped thousands of people achieve their goals. A dedicated mentor can make all the difference.

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Google's APM Program from A to Z

From the application process to the actual experience - everything you wanted to know about being an APM at Google.

Google's Associate Product Manager program is arguably the most prestigious PM program available.

With the amount of responsibility they give their employees, the opportunities for growth and mentorship, and the high salary, it's no wonder the acceptance rate is staggeringly low. In this guide, we'll give you tips and resources to boost your chances of getting through the process. And, if you're not already convinced, we'll tell you more about why the Google APM program is so fantastic!

We'll cover:

How to stand out
The application process
Prepping for the interview
The interview process
How to succeed
What the program is like
What happens after

The Ideal Applicant: How to Stand Out

How many applicants do they accept?

It's estimated that 8,000 people apply to the APM program each year. About 40-45 of them get accepted, making for a ~0.55% acceptance rate .

These folks can be graduating seniors from top universities, or young professionals with just a few years of experience.

What qualities or skills do they look for?

1. technical and business knowledge.

Technical : Be familiar with computer science fundamentals, including operating systems, software development, algorithms, databases, and more. Why? PMs work closely with engineers and must be able to speak their language. Additionally, the APM interview process includes a technical interview, where CS knowledge is expected.
Business: Be familiar with key players in the tech world and how their businesses function (and be especially aware of Google). You should also keep up with popular business/tech-related topics. Both will give you a greater knowledge base when making product decisions.

2. A mix of analytical and creative thinking

They seek people who solve problems efficiently and in a unique way. Google values diversity of thinking, but an ability to improvise and an improvement-oriented mindset will help you.

3. Communication and leadership skills

The APM role requires above-average people skills. Google looks for folks with experience leading teams, clubs, or projects. They want people who have learned to resolve conflict, persuade and inspire others, and unite a group under a common goal.

4. An entrepreneurial spirit

Be innovative, change oriented, and driven to succeed. Google is looking for folks who are ready to come up with world-changing ideas - having projects you can showcase will greatly boost your application.

5. "Googleyness"

This term is used to describe the personality Google seeks out in potential employees. In addition to the right skill set, they want fun, humble, conscientious, and interesting people on their team. Overall, they're looking for uniqueness and a positive contribution to their culture .

How do I stand out?

First impressions count the most here. Tailor your Google APM resume to showcase your experiences, skills, and projects relevant to the position. When doing so, highlight aspects of your background that APM recruiters will be drawn to. In addition to the above, touch on any experience with software, data analysis, design, and research, especially if it ties back to product creation or management.

For an example of a resumes Google liked watch this video .

The Application: Easy but Competitive

What do I need to apply?

You only need 2 things to apply. The initial application consists of a resumé submission and a cover letter. Both of these need to be unique, interesting, and representative of the skills/qualities expected out of APMs. See our tips above or check out one of the resources we list later in the guide.

When and where should I apply?

Depending on your region, applications are accepted at different points throughout the year, usually for a two-week - two-month period. Apply in a country where you speak the business language.

For current students: Talk to your university’s career office about opportunities. For the 12-week APM internship or the 2-year program (post-graduation), look out for applications in the fall beforehand (i.e. fall 2020 applications for the summer 2021 program).
For new grads & young professionals : Check out the Google careers website for opportunities in your region. Most will be in Silicon Valley or New York.

Interview Prep: Don't Skip It!

What are some tips to prep for the APM interview?

1. do your research.

Get comfortable with the interview process, the role, and people's experiences in the program. Various forums, tech blogs, and articles written by APM grads are tremendously helpful You should also familiarize yourself with Google's product offerings and company culture-- this will be essential to answering product design questions and assessing your fit.

2. Practice, practice, practice.

PM interviews are difficult and take a lot of trial & error before you master them. Pay attention to questions surrounding product design, business strategy, coding/technical skills, and standard behavioral responses.

To get started, look into tech and business news to build your knowledge base. Consider enrolling in PM-specific courses, and thoroughly research interview questions . Finally, of course, practice answering those questions before you make it to the interview.

3. Sharpen your communication skills.

This is one of the top things interviewers look for. Practice answering interview questions in ways that highlight these skills (it's not as easy as you think). Here are a few tips on how to do this:

Outline your answer's structure before you dive in. This helps the interviewer understand where you're going and keep you on track.
Maintain a professional yet conversational tone to keep the interviewer engaged.
Showcase your thought process by thinking out loud or writing things down in a clear, structured manner.

What resources should I be aware of?

There are countless resources to prepare for the associate product manager interview. Here are a few of our favorites...

Cracking the PM Interview , Gayle Laakmann McDowell & Jackie Bavaro
Cracking the Coding Interview , Gayle Laakmann McDowell
Hooked , Nir Eyal
Swipe to Unlock , Parth Detroja
The Design of Everyday Things , Don Norman
The Algorithm Design Manual , Steven Skiena
The Product Podcast , for interview with PMs about their day-to-day. Check out this episode with a Google Product Manager!
This Week in Tech , to keep up on the weekly tech news (so you're well informed for your interview).
This is Product Management , to get into the detailed aspects of product + industry trends.
This video by two Google product managers, designed to help you prep for the interview.
Examples of resumes that helped people get hired at Google.
Learn why Google rejects resumes and avoid these mistales

The Interview Process: What You Should Know

How is it structured?

Google's Associate Product Manager program has 4 rounds:

Resume + Cover Letter application
Phone screen (1)
"Onsite interviews" done virtually (3-5, same day)
Final round with an executive, often Brian Rakowski (APM program lead)

What interview questions should I prepare to answer?

These questions focus on product design, strategy, or both. If you've reviewed any PM interview resources, you've probably come across quite a few. Examples include...

If you are tasked with building the next Google Suite feature, what would it be?
Design a vending machine for someone who cannot see.
Tell me about your favorite product and how you would improve it.
How would you improve the monetization of product X?

👉 See all Google APM questions + answers from last year here.

These questions are reminiscent of consulting cases. They often don't have a right answer, rather, interviewers want to see your thought process. They expect you to break large, abstract concepts into bite-sized pieces. In the consulting world, Case in Point is the go-to resource. It might help you too! Here's what these questions might look like...

How many iPhones are sold in the U.S. every year?
How would you solve homelessness in New York City?
You're the CEO of company Z. What new product would you launch first? Why?
Why are manhole covers round?

These questions require an understanding of computer science and fundamental algorithms. You may be asked to explain technical concepts, write algorithms, or perform other basic CS functions. This could include questions like...

Write an algorithm that detects and notifies folks about scheduling conflicts.
Explain recursion to a child.
What data structures would you use to design a simple load balancer for X website?

Don't forget: Behavioral!

You should also be prepared to answer standard behavioral questions regarding your experiences and motivations (hint: always have an answer to "Why Google?").

How do I succeed during the interview?

Be confident . Take pauses, ask clarifying questions, and step into the room knowing that you're as prepared as possible. Everyone has different strategies for keeping a level head. Use them.
Keep track of time . Be aware of the interview structure and check with your interviewer to confirm that you're on track. Leave room for detailed answers, but avoid rambling.
Improve upon your answers . When presented with a case problem, don't expect your first answer to be perfect. Move past what's "normal" or "obvious" and consider extreme circumstances or creative solutions. Acknowledge and explore alternatives to your solution, and why they may be better or worse. Find weaknesses in your solution and outline how they could be improved upon, or what their implications may be.
Showcase the qualities Google is looking for and add your own, unique flair. If you're not sure what I mean, refer to the "Ideal Applicant" section above.

The Program Itself: Have Fun!

The APM Internship: Key Facts

Duration: The internship is 12 weeks long
Team Placement: Each Google APM fintern has a mentor or "host", who manages whichever product team you're assigned to. You do not have much control over which team you end up on, but the managers can look through intern resumes/list preferences, which are factored into final decisions.
Expectations : The projects and expectations vary greatly, depending on your team. You should discuss expectations with your host at the beginning of the program, and understand that a poor midpoint review decreases your chances of an offer.
Return Offers : At the end of the program, you are asked to solicit recommendations from people you have worked with. If they're strong, and Google is impressed with your performance, they may invite you back full-time!

The Full-Time Program: How it Differs

Duration: The Google APM program timeline is 2 years long
Team Placement: You are assigned to a product team for your first year. You are able to list preferences, but the team match is ultimately not your choice.
Second Team: As the first year comes to a close, you get a list of teams that need APMs. You spend 1-2 months meeting with however many you'd like, then rank your top 3-4 choices. The teams submit their top choices and a committee conducts the matching process. You are expected to be on a team that's very different from your first year.
Return Offers: This process is fairly informal. After the second year, you can choose to stay with that team or switch again, in a much less structured process. Regardless of your decision, you are generally promoted to a Product Manager role.

What are the biggest perks?

A high annual salary (around $130K, by many estimates) and full-time work.
Mentorship from APMs who are 1 year ahead in the program. Plus access to outside career coaches!
Real, hands-on experience working on Google products— you won’t be sitting on the sidelines.
A tight-knit community within the APM cohort.
A 2 week trip to Google offices around the world, meant to develop an understanding of society-technology interaction across cultures.

After the Program: What Happens Next?

The short answer: whatever you'd like!

Paths within Google...

About 20% of APMs stay on board with the company.

Some are promoted to product managers, while others may opt to apply for different roles within the company, like software engineering or product marketing. Once you're a part of Google, they will go to great lengths to make sure you find the right position.

Paths outside of Google...

The Google stamp of approval is incredibly powerful-- having such a big name on your resume opens a lot of doors.

Graduates of the APM program have their pick of top-tier organizations and roles. Some folks go on to other tech companies, like LinkedIn or Dropbox, while others harness their entrepreneurial spirit and start businesses of their own.

Quip, StoryWorth, Optimizely, and Asana are just a few companies that APM graduates have founded.

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Third-party data has been obtained from sources we believe to be reliable; however, its accuracy, completeness, or reliability cannot be guaranteed. Candor does not receive compensation to promote or discuss any particular Company; however, Candor, its employees and affiliates, and/or its clients may hold positions in securities of the Companies discussed.