Facebook Program Manager Interview Questions & Answers
Discovery
1. What type of pace do you try to set for yourself and the teams you work with?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
At Facebook, most teams thrive in a fast-paced culture. This question may be asked in an interview to identify candidates who are comfortable working in this type of setting.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to be honest about the pace of work you are able to sustain over time. It is important to work for a company that has a work style that is a fit for your needs. Also, be sure to pair a strategy for balance alongside any mention of a fast-paced environment. Program managers who do not take advantage of slower times or allow for rejuvenation contribute to burnout and disharmony within their teams.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"I try to foster a pace for myself and the teams I work with that is a fit for the demands of our stakeholders and for the individuals on my teams. I typically find myself in alignment with fast-paced initiatives that are iterative and have a high rate of change. I work to lead by example in this type of environment. For example, as a strategist, I always have an eye on the big picture, but I ensure that there are a number of tactical activities moving the teams forward at any given time. I encourage the team leads and individuals on my teams to formulate similar plans of action on a scale that matches the work they do.
I also make it a point to capitalize on slower times when they occur. I feel it is important to give people time to relax, reflect, and rejuvenate. Slower times help to maintain balance, establish a healthy flow of productivity, and cultivate creativity. I set an example by working really hard when the work requires it and resting or playing equally as hard when it is needed for balance and optimal flow."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Discovery
2. What do you enjoy the most about working as a program manager?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers ask this question to determine what motivates a candidate. Program managers at Facebook manage mission-critical technology programs and essential customer relationships. It is important that the role would offer a candidate the opportunity to enjoy the potentially fast-paced and stressful work of a Facebook program manager.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to describe the value that the aspect you select creates in your life. For example, if you explain that you love most the opportunity to leverage your strategic planning skills, you might include an explanation of how strategic planning has helped you move forward professionally and personally.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"The thing I enjoy the most about being a program manager is the opportunity to work to facilitate the delivery of complex solutions. I genuinely appreciate working with my customers to help them fully understand their options to improve their operations. I find it allows me to learn about and work with several divisions of a business simultaneously, and I enjoy serving as the bridge that brings groups together."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Discovery
3. What strategic analysis approaches do you have experience facilitating?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Strategic analysis is a key skill set for a program manager and it is specifically mentioned within the job descriptions for program manager positions at Facebook. This question is asked to determine if a candidate has experience performing this aspect of the role.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include an example of your ability to identify "thematic business problems" within your response. You should be able to then clearly demonstrate how you are able to transform those problems into strategic plans for resolution.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have experience working with business stakeholders to facilitate SWOT analysis sessions. In these sessions, we develop lists of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats and then determine their impact on the business. I have also worked with the OKR model to develop objectives and key results. This model is useful for helping me develop the key performance indicators for the products I am responsible for. Finally, I have experience facilitating strategic brainstorming, prioritization, and user story mapping sessions.
My background as an analyst helps me to understand how to analyze large data sets and look for trends or data points that indicate various operational problems exist within an organization. From there, I have experience partnering with business experts to drive out strategic plans for a resolution that specifically aim to resolve the issue and contribute to the business goals that are in alignment with the strategic improvements for the initiative."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Discovery
4. Describe your executive or senior management presentation experience.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Program managers at Facebook work directly with senior stakeholders. Interviewers ask this question to ensure that candidates can present the right level of detail in a way that is easily understood by this important audience.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to communicate that you are confident presenting information to this level of an audience while simultaneously demonstrating humility. Executives and senior leaders at Facebook represent a wide range of informational needs and it is expected that a program manager will need to learn the preferences of their audience.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my last role, I was responsible for developing and maintaining implementation roadmaps. I regularly presented these to senior executives within client organizations who were responsible for budget approval. During these meetings, I communicated the vision for the entire solution, the investment needs, and the projected ROI information.
I appreciated the direct communication style of the executives I worked with. I learned to customize my presentation style to match the style of their company. I found that these presentations were a perfect time to set the expectations around the support our team would need in partnering with them to onboard their company successfully."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Discovery
5. We offer employees flexible work environment options. What would an ideal working environment look like for you as a program manager?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Facebook offers a progressive and flexible work environment for its employees. They allow individuals and teams to develop work settings and norms that are the best fit for their unique needs. This question is asked in an interview to determine if a candidate's perspective on flexible work environments is in alignment with the views of Facebook and the needs of the teams a program manager will work with and support.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include your thoughts on developing strong connections within the workplace in a flexible environment. The "Meta, Metamates, Me" aspect of the Meta and Facebook culture includes taking care of each other. Time spent nurturing connections between teammates and a willingness to be flexible to support the needs of others demonstrates an understanding of these important company values.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"I genuinely appreciate companies that offer work environments that support the work environment needs and preferences of their employees. I have worked remotely for the past seven years, and that model has afforded me the opportunity to spend more time with my family and live in the community that is the best fit for us.
Ideally, I like to primarily work from home and travel to client sites or the office as needed. Regardless of the location, I ask the members of my teams to be transparent about their availability each day and to work in an environment that allows them to focus properly. I implement all of those same standards for myself as well.
Additionally, an ideal environment includes opportunities for employees to spend time socializing here and there. I find that the teams I work with are better connected when they have a chance to get to know one another personally. The work we do is more productive and enjoyable when strong connections exist."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Discovery
6. What level of leadership or oversight do you typically provide during a vendor implementation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Program managers at Facebook play a key role in the coordination of projects that require solutions from 3rd party vendors or business partners. Interviewers ask this question to get a sense of the depth of experience a candidate has managing this type of initiative.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to discuss the phases of engagement with third parties that occur prior to the inception of an actual project. This includes discovery activities such as information gathering, proposal review, contract negotiation, and budgeting.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am typically responsible for generating requests for information or proposal documents and oversight of the requirement gathering process. I work with legal teams and business and technical stakeholders during contract negotiations to ensure the needs of our company are properly represented. I manage the financial aspects of these engagements and ensure that the resources our company needs to provide are assigned and available.
I also get involved when conflicts arise between the various groups. There is often a disconnect between the proposal and what is actually possible during implementation, so I play a key role in facilitating meetings to find solutions that make sense for everyone.
Finally, I make sure that the senior stakeholders are properly informed at all stages of the process. I regularly communicate the status of vendor initiatives through our roadmap, and I prepare our senior leaders any time they are needed for support or escalation."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Discovery
7. Do you have experience as a direct manager for program or project managers?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Some program managers at Facebook manage others within their program directly. This question is included in an interview when a candidate will be expected to formally manage resources in addition to the initiatives they lead.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to describe the functions you have performed that are typically executed by a manager in the event you do not have direct management experience. This includes activities such as assigning work, assessing performance, approving time, etcetera.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am currently a senior project manager. In this role, I do not have direct management responsibilities, but I oversee the work of two project managers. I am responsible for assigning them to projects, approving their time, and monitoring their performance. I also provide annual performance assessments to their managers and ensure they have the training and mentoring opportunities they need.
We partner to discuss strategy, review their project roadmaps and discuss customer and team member-related issues. I attend important customer and vendor meetings and ensure that the work their teams take on is properly aligned with strategic goals."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Discovery
8. What types of meetings do you have experience facilitating as a program manager?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Program managers at Facebook are required to facilitate solutions for complex business problems. Interviewers ask this question to determine if a candidate has experience facilitating the types of meetings required of the role.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to mention any formal training or facilitation techniques you have experience with such as brainstorming, conflict resolution, or teambuilding. Also, include both program and project-level meetings you have facilitated in your response.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have facilitated program-level strategic planning, goal setting, and roadmap-review sessions. I have experience facilitating all of the standard project-level meetings such as discovery, project planning, kickoff, requirements gathering, design, development, training, and implementation. I have also led post-project meetings such as reflection and support assessments.
I am a formally trained facilitator and I use basic tools such as agendas, parking lots, ground rules, action items, and decision lists as appropriate. I am skilled in leading brainstorming, prioritization, conflict resolution, and team building activities."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Discovery
9. What is a contingent workforce, and what level of experience do you have working with resources under the various contingent models?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Facebook relies on contingent workforce resources to supplement its staff as needed. Interviewers ask this question to ensure the candidate they select is familiar with the various contingent workforce models and has the experience necessary to properly manage this type of work.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to mention any experience you have supporting operational groups that work with contingent workforce models in the event your direct management of contingent workforce resources is limited. Interviewers may accept general knowledge of the standards and practices involved in lieu of actual experience.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"A contingent workforce consists of resources that are not under contract for ongoing employment. Examples of contingent resources included those that are freelance, temporary, outsourced, consultants, etcetera.
In my current role as a program manager, we hire freelance resources through Upwork regularly to assist with specific opportunities as they arise. We also outsource some of our technical engineering resources. I help to define the terms of their assignments and work with our team leads to get them up to speed and manage their work.
Additionally, I have experience supporting operations groups in an enterprise setting that have a number of temporary employees. I am familiar with the payroll and HR standards that apply in those scenarios."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Discovery
10. What is your comfort level with international travel?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Some Facebook program manager roles require international travel. Interviewers who ask this question anticipate required travel. They use this question to identify candidates who are comfortable with this aspect of the program manager role.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to check the travel requirements within the job description on Meta's website prior to your interview. It is important that you have a clear stance on travel as candidates who communicate uncertainty are often eliminated from additional interviews. Also, mention your experience traveling internationally outside of professional settings if your work-related travel experience is limited.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am good with traveling internationally as needed. I currently travel to client sites in Asia, Europe, and South America. I enjoy spending time learning about various cultures and experiencing life in other parts of the world."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Discovery
11. Describe your experience leading enterprise operations initiatives.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Some program manager roles at Facebook support internal operations. This question is asked in program manager interviews in which the candidate will be expected to lead projects or programs that directly impact the operations of Facebook or other product lines within Meta.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include examples of the various types of projects you have led including operations, technical, financial, HR, etcetera. Also, be sure to describe your experience leading internal projects, customer projects, and those that require partnership with third-party vendors. Finally, consider providing details regarding the scale of the programs or projects you had responsibility for. This includes the budgets you were responsible for, the resources you led, and the user communities you served.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"I began working as a project manager within the properties division of a large enterprise. I managed projects for initiatives such as large office moves, new system rollouts, and major renovations. The budgets for these types of projects varied from several hundred thousand dollars to multi-million. I coordinated tasks between the various stakeholder groups, other project managers in my area, and the groups we relied on to handle construction and our technology needs.
In my current role at Amazon, I am a program manager within the workspace operations group. My main focus is to coordinate projects that enhance the workplace experience of Amazon employees. these projects include internal operations initiatives and projects that require coordination with partners and vendors.
There are four project managers that report directly to me, and we collectively represent a portfolio of anywhere between 10 and 20 projects at any given time. I am responsible for developing roadmaps, tracking progress, establishing budgets, delivering executive presentations, and ensuring project management standards are upheld."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Discovery
12. What project management tools have you used in the past?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Candidates may be asked this question in an interview to determine if they have experience in alignment with the tools that the interviewing company uses to manage projects, teams, and budgets. Advanced understanding of these types of solutions is often considered nice to have and may set a candidate apart from another without expertise in this area.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include any experience you have administrating the tools in your answer. Activities like queue administration, workflow definition, or other advanced administration experience demonstrate that your knowledge goes beyond a basic user-level understanding of the tools you have used.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"I used MS Project early in my project management career. Most recently, I have used Wrike, Jira, and Monday. I prefer each of them over MS Project as the collaborative features are a better fit for my teams and my needs as a project manager and a program manager.
I was involved in the initial implementations of Wrike and Jira for my teams. I worked to help align the tools properly with our workflows and defined the attributes of information we needed to track. I also helped to customize the reporting at the team and program levels."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Discovery
13. How many projects do you typically have in flight at once?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers at Facebook ask this question to get a sense of the scale of the programs a candidate has experience managing. The answer a candidate provides helps to determine if their experience is in alignment with the level of responsibility that is expected of the role to be fulfilled.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to provide high-level details regarding the number of resources on the project teams included within your answer. For example, a project manager responsible for one project with fifty individuals assigned might be comparable to a program manager responsible for five projects assigned to five smaller teams.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"The program I currently manage is comprised of four teams that support seven major products. Three of the teams are cross-functional teams of seven to ten resources including project managers, product managers, engineers, and testers. The other team handles all of the maintenance and support of our products that are in production.
We typically aim to break large initiatives down into small projects that range from three to six months in duration and there are anywhere from five to ten projects occurring simultaneously at any given time."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Discovery
14. Do you have experience leading technology development projects? If so, can you describe the types of projects and the functions you performed.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Not all program managers at Facebook lead technology solution development initiatives, but the products of Facebook are all technology-based. Interviewers ask this question to determine a candidate's level of experience in this area as they will likely coordinate with technology development teams at some time during their work in the program manager role.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to describe the roles you had responsibility over in your role as a technology project manager or program manager. It is important to offer a sense of the breadth of management experience you have this area including the management of cross-functional teams.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"The job I held previous to my current role was a project manager position for a financial services SasS product. I managed projects to develop features for the API and mobile functions of our product.
I managed a cross-functional team that included product managers, systems analysts, engineers, and quality assurance analysts. I was also responsible for coordinating the work of shared resources such as architects, database administrators, support analysts, support engineers, and consultants as needed."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Discovery
15. What is your upward communication style?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Program managers are expected to provide regular updates to executives and senior stakeholders at Facebook. Interviewers may ask this question to determine how a candidate will approach these important conversations.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to demonstrate a style that is clear and honest. Interviewers appreciate candidates that respect authority and show integrity in their approach. Also, be sure to demonstrate direct and succinct communication. Senior managers and executives often have limited time for updates and appreciate quick headline-first communication that drives further conversation as needed.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"In general, my communication style is direct. I use a clear and easy-to-understand approach. I offer summary-level details and I am prepared to back my assertions up with data and examples as necessary. I try not to spend extra time communicating details for items I am able to handle on my own so that my time with seniors is reserved for the valuable insight they can provide in areas that need support.
I do not typically invest time in trying to avoid difficult conversations. I face them head-on and go in prepared with solution recommendations. I take any feedback that results from these meetings and work hard to incorporate it into my approach for future initiatives. I find the combination of integrity paired with quick and consistent action creates a strong partnership over time with the senior-level stakeholders, managers, and customers I am accountable to."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Discovery
16. What qualities of a company's culture would be a red flag for you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Company and team culture are highly important at Facebook and Meta. Interviewers ask this question to identify candidates that are a fit for Facebook and the individual teams a candidate will work with.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to research Meta's culture prior to an interview. Select an answer that describes an aspect of corporate culture you know they would not be in support of. Keep your answer general and do not specifically mention a previous employer or co-worker in your response.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"I thrive in cultures that allow teams to develop workstyles and dynamics that are the best fit for their unique needs. Stringent processes and procedures have a place in many companies and add tremendous value in some cases. However, cultures in which adherence to processes that are clearly not working is enforced, or when large organizations adopt one-size-fits-all models that do not allow for flexibility are a red flag for me. I feel creativity and innovation are stifled in that type of setting."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Discovery
17. What qualities of a company's culture do you appreciate the most?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Company and team culture are highly important at Facebook and Meta. Interviewers ask this question to identify candidates that are a fit for Facebook and the individual teams they will work with.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to research Meta's culture prior to your interview. Consider which of their six core values you resonate with the most and offer an answer in alignment with the spirit of those values.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"I appreciate companies that foster environments where people are able to speak and act genuinely and authentically in the workplace. I find that members of teams generate their best work when they feel supported holistically, they feel comfortable being vulnerable, they speak their minds, and they are allowed to help create team dynamics that are the best fit for their needs."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Leadership
18. How do you foster teamwork and collaboration in a remote setting?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Facebook employees work in flexible environments including on-site, remote, and hybrid settings. Interviewers ask this question to gain insight into a candidate's ability to foster a healthy team environment regardless of the work setting of each team member.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include any coaching or mentoring activities you regularly perform to encourage project managers or other team leads within your area of responsibility to improve teamwork. Interviewers value candidates who can influence others to actively contribute to the health of their teams.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"My approach to fostering teamwork and collaboration in a remote setting is multifaceted. First, I hold daily calls with the team leads within our program. It was easier to get a sense of how things were going when everyone was collocated. I was able to walk around and gather most of the information I needed informally. Now, I make sure that we check in regularly so that we address things early and often. Also, I make it clear that they can reach out to me at any time. I am here to serve them and help them be successful in any way that I can, and I make sure to reiterate that often.
Second, I have asked all of our teams to check in with each other daily and communicate their needs. This identifies dependencies and helps everyone organize their work to best support one another. This addition has led to a significant reduction in delays.
Third, I encourage our team leads to lead by example. I ask them to reach out to the members of their teams regularly. This is usually a quick Slack chat just to check in and make sure their teammates have everything they need to be successful. I also ask that they schedule monthly team-building activities. They set aside time to eat a meal together, watch a movie, learn a new skill, or whatever. It helps everyone stay connected, and I really enjoy participating in these meetings as much as possible."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Leadership
19. What type of leader do you aspire to be?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Leadership skills are an important aspect of a program manager's toolkit, and every leader has a unique style. Interviewers ask this question to determine the type of leadership they can expect a candidate to aim for within their time at Facebook.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include a brief explanation of why you prefer the leadership style you mention. Interviewers are interested to know the inspiration behind your current blend of leadership qualities and how you would like to develop them in the future.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"I would like to be the type of leader that inspires others to do the right thing. I want the people I am fortunate to lead to believe in taking pride in their work and working hard to continually improve. I have worked with mentors in the past that have inspired me to do things right and ensure the quality of my work, and I do the same for others. I find that these qualities foster healthy team dynamics.
I would also like to be a fair, empathetic, and trustworthy leader. I want the individuals I lead to know they can always come to me for guidance and support. They can expect honesty and for me to have their best interest at heart.
Finally, I think it is important to be a facilitative and collaborative leader. I do not always have the best ideas, but I am great at making a comfortable space for those with the best ideas to come together creatively."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Leadership
20. At Facebook, part of our mission is to uplift the world through safe and inclusive communities. How would you contribute to the development of a safe and inclusive community within the teams you work with?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Safety and inclusion are an important part of the mission and culture of Facebook. Interviewers ask this question to gain insight into how a candidate would contribute to these values in a team setting.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to demonstrate your ability to lead by example within your response. Many senior leaders at Facebook discuss the embodiment of the culture they promote in blog posts and on various social media platforms. Interviewers appreciate leaders who are able to provide a similar level of leadership to their teams.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"As a strategist, I like to ensure the teams I work with have a solid understanding of the value that is created by any cultural, business, or operational behavior we adopt. I feel that the why is equally as important as the how. I would begin by researching team dynamic case studies and identifying examples of the rates of performance and happiness for teams that adopted similar values as well as those that lacked them. I would present the results to my teams as a starting point for a discussion.
From there, I would lead a brainstorming session in which we identify behaviors that make my teammates feel safe and included as well as those that do not. From there, I would let everyone vote anonymously about the items they feel are most important to focus on culturally as well as those we should ensure the avoidance of. That would set the stage for an understanding of how we expect to operate as a group. I would leave it there as I trust the members of my teams to honor the wishes of others without specific guidelines or operating procedure lists.
I would then use the results of our discussions to lead by example. I would embody the behaviors we collectively felt would lead to a culture of safety and inclusion and I would avoid the behaviors that we decided would not. I would discuss issues in holding these values with individuals as necessary and use them as a basis for conflict resolution. I would encourage the team to reflect on a regular basis to test our assumptions about the value our culture has and make adjustments to our course as necessary."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Leadership
21. What does a successful mentoring relationship look like?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Some program manager positions at Facebook have direct managerial responsibilities. Others require candidates to lead and coach through indirect methods such as influence, example, and inspiration. Mentoring and coaching skills are a requirement under each model. Interviewers ask this question to gain insight into a candidate's ability to ensure the members of their teams are properly aligned with coaching and learning opportunities.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to describe a relationship in which the mentor or coach receives value from the time and effort they offer their mentee. Growing leadership and coaching skills are an important part of a mature team's development.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"A truly successful mentoring relationship is unique and fully customized to the needs of the mentor and the mentee. However, there are a few attributes that are common in the successful scenarios I have been a part of.
First, there should be a purpose to the relationship. It is important for both parties to know what it is they aim to achieve. While there is value in learning as a mentee, there is an equal learning opportunity as a mentor. Both roles are in mutual service to each other.
Second, there needs to be honesty and vulnerability. Mentors can offer more as a coach when their mentees expose their strengths and weaknesses properly. Likewise, mentors that are willing to share their failures alongside their successes have the opportunity to create richer learning experiences.
Finally, both parties need to be willing to observe, reflect, and provide honest feedback. Direct and open communication is critical, and the mentor and mentee should each be willing to change in order to grow in a valuable way."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Situational
22. Describe a time when you had to convince a customer that their desired solution was not in their best interest.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
There is often a difference between the image of success a client has in mind and what is feasible for technology, resource, or budgetary reasons. This question is asked to ensure that a candidate understands this potential conflict and has a method to address it.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include a scenario in which you were able to support your claims with proper analysis. While program managers lean heavily on their intuition in many cases, interviewers value candidates who demonstrate proof for their claims in scenarios in which a customer learns their wants are not actually in their best interest.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"I was asked to complete an executive-level discovery effort of a business's implementation of a particular technology. My client was unhappy with their current solution and had decided that they wanted to replace it with something new that their competition was using. I was familiar with the capabilities of both systems and agreed that the new system was a potential candidate.
Upon review of their high-level requirements, workflows, implementation specifics, and budget constraints it became apparent that modification of their current system was a better fit. I developed a presentation that demonstrated how the current solution could be adjusted in a manner that would offer the needed operational efficiencies. Additionally, I outlined the cost of changing systems in terms of software, hosting costs, implementation time, and maintenance. I was able to clearly demonstrate that making adjustments to the current system would be cost-effective and easier for their staff overall.
The executives and directors of the operations groups I was working with thanked my team and me for backing our claims up with data and offering examples of how we could still make things better for their staff while saving money. The process served as a learning opportunity for their team that technology replacement decisions are complex and need proper analysis before jumping in with a new vendor."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Situational
23. Describe a time when you implemented a solution that was scaled and customized to meet the needs of multiple stakeholders within a business.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Facebook program managers are sometimes challenged to develop strategies for solutions that will serve multiple groups with significant workflow differences. This question is asked to determine a candidate's ability to effectively meet the needs of a diverse stakeholder group.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include an example that shows your ability to develop strategies to incrementally deliver value. This may include implementing a proof of concept or a small-scale solution while the detailed needs of the entire user population are met.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"I worked with multiple HR groups within a large enterprise. They were in need of an employee onboarding solution that handled provisioning requests and integrated properly with various downstream security and technology systems. I developed a strategy for a first-pass solution for a group that had requirements that were representative of the majority first. From there, the teams I worked with were able to gather feedback, make adjustments, and then roll the solution out to the groups with similar workflows. While that took place, I was able to work with the outlier groups and develop plans to scale the solution appropriately to meet their needs. This strategy allowed us to realize a maximum level of business impact quickly while doing the detailed analysis necessary to meet the needs of the entire group of stakeholders."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Situational
24. Describe a time when you were required to pivot on the fly.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Facebook is a large enterprise, but they lean on agility and "move fast" to produce the products their customers rely on. Interviewers ask this question to ensure that a program manager candidate has experience responding to internal or external changes in direction as necessary.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to offer an example that is in alignment with the scale expected of a program manager. For example, a change in budget availability due to an unexpected external event might cause a program manager to rescope an entire program of work whereas a change in user need might cause a project manager to rescope a small group of features. These two scenarios describe a significantly different scale of impact. Candidates that can demonstrate the ability to quickly respond to larger-scale changes are valued.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"My current program manager role is within a large media and entertainment company. We are responsible for the assets that are delivered to a number of platforms including streaming services and live on-air events. We were in the middle of a major company initiative that was meant to provide a greater level of integration across all of our products when the pandemic hit.
The business units my portfolio of solutions served were hit hard in a number of ways. Some areas had to scale back operations and reduce staff because the live events they relied on were canceled. Some areas had to learn to operate in quarantine to keep live events going. Some areas were flooded because more people were at home and wanted fresh content to stream. At the same time, the technical teams I led were suddenly working fully remote and learning how to thrive in a new environment.
I met with the senior management in each of my customer areas. I worked with them to review the current technology roadmap and discuss their new needs. We focused on a short-term strategy and developed a three-month projection for each group. I then developed a plan to shift resources around within my teams accordingly. I worked with our technical leads, architects, senior analysts, and project managers to get everyone up to speed on their new assignments as quickly as possible.
I also worked with the leads on all of my teams to establish remote work plans to ensure that everyone stayed in sync while they were getting used to all of the changes. We held town hall meetings with our small group to review the new roadmaps and discuss the strategic shifts we needed to accommodate. I felt it was important to be transparent and open the door for feedback. All ideas were welcome, and the creative ideas individuals contributed added a ton of value.
We also used the meetings to air out concerns, vent together, boost each other up, play games, and just hang out online. It was important to me to make sure we maintained the strong culture we were known for. I made it a point to lead by example and show empathy for the struggles people were facing. My teams were really impressive, and they rolled with every change our business leaders asked of us. They maintained their high level of performance and met the needs of our customers until we were able to get back to normal planning and execution."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Situational
25. If I were to ask one of your current co-workers to describe you in three words, what would they say?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Facebook works hard to create and maintain a specific culture within the cross-functional teams that program managers have responsibility for. This question may be asked in an interview to determine if a candidate is a personality fit for the teams they will work with directly.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to scan the posting for the job you are interested in at Facebook for the personality traits they are seeking in a candidate. Align your response with one or more of those traits if they describe you well. For example, Facebook values individuals who can pivot easily, and answering with "agile," or "flexible" would demonstrate your alignment with those attributes.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"It might depend on who you ask, but I think all of my coworkers would agree with 'tenacious' because I chase whatever I am assigned with determination. They would also say that I am 'direct' because it is my natural communication style. Finally, I think they would say that I am 'lighthearted'. I like to work hard, and I try to inspire others to do the same. However, I enjoy a positive and vulnerable environment in which my teams and I laugh often and do not take ourselves too seriously."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Situational
26. At Facebook, part of our mission is to help others nurture connections. How would you develop healthy connections with your stakeholders?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Program managers at Facebook are expected to develop strong relationships with their teams and their stakeholders. Interviewers ask this question to ensure a candidate has the soft skills necessary to create and maintain these critical connections.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to include personal strategies alongside professional techniques for developing relationships. It is natural to approach this aspect of a program manager's work in a way that cultivates a friendly environment in addition to one of professional trust and respect.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"First and foremost, I use performance as a method of forming strong relationships. I make commitments and work hard to develop strategies to ensure they are met regularly. I am accountable for the work of my teams, and I take ownership for the resolution of any issues that arise. I work to inspire the members of my teams to learn about their stakeholders and approach their problems and opportunities as if they were their own. I believe in working to develop a consistent level of excellency from a customer service perspective and I strive to set the tone through my own actions. I get involved personally any time I can be of service to my team and my customers throughout all of the phases of the projects I am responsible for.
On a personal level, I take the time to get to know my stakeholders. I enjoy taking them to lunch, coffee, or whatever is appropriate to learn more about them personally and more about their challenges and successes. I feel this type of regular outreach goes a long way towards nurturing connections and fostering trust in the event unforeseen challenges arise."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Situational
27. How do you measure the success of the programs you are responsible for?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Program managers are directly responsible for ensuring the success of the initiatives within their assigned program. They may also provide leadership to project managers who monitor the success of the individual projects within the program. Interviewers ask this question to determine if a candidate can clearly articulate how they know when their programs are successful.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to specify your work with any standard models such as objectives and key results, critical success factors, the seven forces model, etcetera, you have used to measure success in the past. Large programs often rely on these types of models and value program manager candidates who have experience tracking success in this way.
Also, remember to describe a method for tracking success at a team level. This may include activities such as holding reflection meetings or one-on-ones to gauge morale. Successful product launches and delivery of business goals are important, but it can be equally as important to maintain a program environment where team members feel supported and satisfied.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"There are three main aspects to measuring success for the programs I am responsible for. First, I measure how the work of the teams within my program preform against the defined goals of the initiative. I prefer to use the objectives and key results model for measuring this aspect of the work. I appreciate that each of the objectives has a distinct list of key results that are directly measurable. These objectives usually include measurements of delivery time, budget performance, revenue generation, operational efficiencies, and customer satisfaction.
Secondly, I work with the project managers, product managers, and technical leads within my program to develop a clear strategy to achieve our objectives. These activities include release planning, reviewing product launch activities, defining milestones, and reviewing budgets. During these sessions, we discuss the team success metrics that we can use on a regular basis to contribute to the measurement of the OKRs. We end with the creation of team based OKRs that align with the strategic plan.
During execution, I check in regularly with all of my teams to see how well we are performing. We review their progress against the team objectives and map their success back to the program objectives. We discuss any performance issues and develop strategies to get back on track. We also celebrate successes and discuss strategies to fully leverage things that are working better than expected.
Thirdly, I feel it is important to measure the success of a program by the satisfaction of the employees who contribute to it and the stakeholders it serves. The measurement methods for this can be a bit ambiguous, but I have used a mix of reflection meetings, one-on-ones, surveys, teambuilding events, and impromptu check-ins in the past. I like to make sure that everyone feels supported and pleased with the results. I work with the project managers and engineering leads to make sure they focus on this as well because it is a critical success factor in many cases."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Situational
28. Describe a time when the data-driven analysis you performed informed an impactful decision.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Program managers at Facebook rely heavily on data to inform important decisions. They are often asked to make quick assessments that affect strategy and define the tactical plans of their teams. Leveraging the information available is a key part of this process. Interviewers ask this question to ensure the candidate they select has the analytical skills necessary to perform this important function of the program manager role.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to describe the problem or original state, what you did to address it, and the impact your analysis had on the situation. Also, scenarios that have more than one area of impact resonate with interviewers.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my current role, I am a program manager for a company that implements warehousing and inventory management solutions. I began at the company as a project manager working to upgrade the ERP of a major food retailer. I was told that the client fully understood the needs of their company and that my role would mostly be to coordinate work and ensure everyone stayed on track.
I do not have a formal analyst background, but I have learned to analyze data properly over the years. I prefer to back my assertions up properly before making recommendations that will heavily impact a project. In this case, the stakeholder communicated requirements that would adversely impact operations in several of their warehouses he did not work in directly. I traveled to those sites and met with the stakeholders there and they expressed concerns. I was able to work with them to gather data specific to their locations and prove that meeting the requirements as stated would cause significant issues with their inventory processing.
I worked with my team to propose an alternate solution that would better serve the needs of the entire stakeholder group. I presented my analysis to my senior leaders and the senior stakeholders for the project. I was thanked for uncovering the issue before the previous design was built and implemented. My instinct to reach out to my downstream clients and support their case through data saved their company time and money. It also served to build trust and customer satisfaction points for my company."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Situational
29. Facebook program managers are "go-to" individuals who bridge groups together. What steps would you take to establish yourself in that role?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Program managers at Facebook lean heavily on their facilitation skills. They serve as bridges that ensure a proper and continuous flow of information across groups. They find creative ways to make the work teams at Facebook do as efficiently as possible. Interviewers ask this question to gain insight into the strategy a candidate would use to gain the expertise and trust necessary to perform in this capacity at a high level.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to demonstrate that you would spend time gathering the knowledge necessary to truly understand the needs and concerns of the groups within your program of responsibility. Additionally, describe a strategy for establishing trust. These two areas are critical pathways for a program manager to bridge groups together in a healthy way.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"Initially, I would spend time working directly with all of the teams within my program. I would take on tasks where it makes sense to ensure I am up to speed and understand their worlds properly. Likewise, I would spend time with my stakeholder groups to understand their operations and their needs. These shadowing and information-gathering efforts would serve as a foundation to bridge groups together.
I would facilitate discussions each time I identify potential conflicts or collaboration opportunities across groups. I would help them to understand the operations and perspectives of each area so that we could effectively identify the highest value solutions.
On an individual level, I would be accountable for my work and would be as transparent as possible. I would handle sensitive information with the respect and grace it deserves, and I would maintain a continual flow of information to best support each group. Over time, I feel these strategies would combine to support me in establishing myself as the go-to person that bridges each group together."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Situational
30. At Facebook, we ask that our program managers develop domain expertise. Please describe your process for obtaining the domain specific knowledge required for the role.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Facebook hires candidates who are passionate about their products and goals for changing the world. Interviewers ask this question to ensure a candidate has a strategy to extend their passion into subject matter expertise that will help their assigned programs thrive.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to discuss a variety of information-gathering strategies within your response. You may consider including research, interviews, observation, and shadowing. Also, be sure to mention a strategy for gathering domain expertise in areas that impact your program externally such as learning about competitors or the business partners that support operations or solutions within your area of focus.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"The first step I would take to develop domain expertise is to gather any available documentation or research materials I could walk through on my own. I would use this as a framework to drive rich conversations with the various experts I would be working with. From there, I would meet with the subject matter experts and senior leaders in each of the product areas I have responsibility for. I would ask them questions about the history of the projects and products and for their take on upcoming and long-term needs.
I would also spend time attending team meetings. I would observe and gather detailed information about the current happenings on the team. This would build my product and business expertise as well as my knowledge about the individuals working within my program. I would also shadow the customers or users of any of the solutions my program is responsible for. This would help me gather information on how they use the products, what they feel adds value, and what they need going forward.
Finally, I would do research online to learn about competitor products and the solutions available from Facebook's business partners. This would help me to better understand the external factors that affect my program."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Situational
31. How can you help to facilitate "executive synthesis" as a program manager at Facebook?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Program managers within large enterprises such as Facebook serve as a bridge between various operational and customer-facing groups. Interviewers ask this question to identify candidates with the proper mix of communication and facilitation skills necessary to synchronize efforts across each group properly.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to discuss a strategy for establishing alignment across the various groups you would work with initially as well as a plan for ensuring regular synthesis incrementally. Also, demonstrate that you would serve as a program subject matter expert providing the details needed to support seniors in making complex decisions necessary for success.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"There are several ways I can help facilitate executive synthesis as a program manager. First, I would work to facilitate discussions regarding the needs and priorities of each group. I would offer insight into the value of their requests as well as an analysis of the cost of delay as competing needs are prioritized against each other. Once we establish a clear set of collective goals, I would develop a strategic plan, socialize it, and gain approval across all of the stakeholder groups.
I would provide a roadmap with key points such as milestones and dependencies regularly. I would also facilitate regular check-ins to discuss status and collaboration opportunities. I would raise issues and opportunities that need support across groups and ensure that everyone stays in sync. I would offer insight into patterns and the details behind any problems that need to be resolved. I would also communicate opportunities I see for synthesis across groups and work to develop both strategic and tactical plans of action."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Situational
32. How would you add value within your first sixty days after being hired for the program manager role at Facebook?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Program managers are expected to create efficiencies and add value to the programs they manage. Additionally, program managers are expected to be able to make quick program assessments and develop tactical and strategic plans for change. Interviewers ask this question to ensure the candidate they select has a clear plan for how they will benefit the teams they work with shortly after they are hired.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Remember To
Remember to describe a process for adding value to the teams you will be assigned to as well as the customers or stakeholders you will be working with. It can also be helpful to demonstrate how your specific expertise will benefit the business operations of the area you will be assigned if that information is known prior to your interview. Finally, be sure to communicate a sense of humility within your response. Program managers at Facebook are expected to be able to lead quickly, but it is important to take the time to learn how the new teams, stakeholders, and customers operate before driving change.
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022
Answer Example
"One of the first things I would do upon arrival is to learn as much as I can about the lines of the Facebook business I will be supporting, the teams I will be working with and the customers or stakeholders I will serve. I typically use a mix of research, interviews, shadowing, and observation in my approach to this. The information I gather during this process helps to ensure that I understand the goals of the organization, the program, and the projects involved.
Additionally, I work quickly to identify an area where I can be of immediate service to my team. Sometimes I have expertise in an area they need help with, and sometimes they just need someone to take smaller tasks and run with them. I find this help alleviate pain within teams that are overworked, and it helps me to get to know the teams and systems I will be working with.
Finally, I dedicate time to getting to know the people I will be working with. I use these informal check-ins to mostly listen and learn. They help to establish lines of communication and trust. Developing strong relationships is a key aspect of program management and I like to begin that process on day one."
Written by Karrie Day on June 13th, 2022