BetterUp Product Designer Interview Questions
& Process

My interview experience was pretty chaotic and I ended up dropping out before a panel interview. Based on the recruiting process, I'd advise running the other way! They rescheduled interviews multiple times without giving any reasons. I was set up for several rounds, but none of them included the hiring manager. I did have a good chat with a potential peer, but it wasn't enough to make me think it was a great team to join. The recruiter I spoke with couldn't give me any useful info about the job or the team. It felt like they were just reading from a script, even asking if I was cool with working 3 days a week in an office that, as I later found out, didn't even exist yet.

At BetterUp, the interview process really digs into your mindset with a lot of behavioral questions. It included a recruiter call, a chat with the hiring manager, a review of your work, a long four-hour onsite, a meeting with an executive, and then a final interview with the founders. Except for the portfolio review, all interviews were about behavioral stuff, not skill tests or exercises. Even though the process was long, I always felt good after each interview, like energized and keen for the next one because the interviewers were so into it and asked really good questions that made for great chats.

The whole process was super fast, which I liked. First, there was a 30-minute call with an HR partner. Then, a 30-minute call with the Hiring Manager. This call was really informative; I got to learn about the company, the role, the team, and what the product goals are right now. I also shared my experience, talked about my projects, how I work with others, and highlighted some key projects. It was a really natural chat. After that call, I was given a take-home assignment, which was based on my past work. They also gave me specific things to focus on in my portfolio for this take-home. I'm not sure how they evaluate these internally, but I suspect it's a bit biased. Unfortunately, I didn't make it past this stage. There wasn't even a chance to discuss my work. It felt like someone just decided they didn't like the project and rejected it. It's a pretty awful assessment system, and they don't pay for the work done. I really think the team should at least provide constructive feedback. Honestly, I don't even feel bad about not getting through. It gave me a good idea of how they might treat employees and a peek into their design culture. No feedback, no insights, nothing. So, don't expect too much from this interview process.