How To Get Into Product Based Companies?

In today’s highly competitive job market, securing a position in a product-based company can be a significant milestone in one’s career. These companies offer unique challenges and opportunities, making them an attractive choice for many professionals. However, getting a job in product based company requires careful preparation and understanding of the selection process. This article will provide you with the essential steps to answer your question- “How to get into product-based companies?

Understanding Product Based Companies

Before exploring the strategies for getting into product-based companies, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of what these companies are all about.

Product-based companies focus on creating and selling their own products, offering tangible or digital goods that serve a specific purpose or need.

For example, Apple is a well-known product based company that designs and sells electronic products like iPhones and MacBooks. Another example is Nike, which specializes in athletic footwear and apparel. On the digital side, Microsoft produces software products, including the Windows operating system and Office suite.

On the other side, service-based companies specialize in delivering intangible services that are customized to meet the specific needs of their clients.

For example, Accenture stands out in offering expert consulting and outsourcing services to various industries, helping businesses optimize their operations and strategy. Similarly, a neighborhood plumbing business offers essential plumbing services to residential and commercial properties, focusing on providing skilled assistance and solutions rather than physical products.

Understanding the Selection Process in Product Based Companies

Once you have a clear understanding of what product-based companies are, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the selection process they typically follow. The hiring process in product based companies is rigorous and involves multiple stages to ensure that they pick the best candidates for their teams. Let’s take a closer look at each stage:

Application for the Job

The first step is to submit your application for a job opening in a product based company. This application usually consists of your resume and a cover letter outlining your skills and experience. It is crucial to tailor your application to highlight your strengths and relevance to the company’s requirements.

Resume Shortlisting

After submitting your application, the company’s HR team will review all received resumes and shortlist candidates based on their qualifications and experience. To increase your chances of getting shortlisted, make sure your resume is well-structured, error-free, and showcases your relevant achievements.

Online Test – Coding and Aptitude

Selected candidates will be invited to take an online test that assesses their coding skills and aptitude. This test typically includes multiple-choice questions and programming problems. It is essential to prepare thoroughly for this test by practicing coding problems and brushing up on your aptitude skills.

Technical Interview Round

Candidates who pass the online test are then called for a technical interview. This interview aims to evaluate their technical knowledge and problem-solving abilities. Be prepared to answer questions related to data structures, algorithms, computer fundamentals, and software development methodologies.

System Design Round

A system design round is conducted to assess the candidate’s ability to design scalable and efficient systems. It involves discussions on architectural patterns, database design, and system constraints. Familiarize yourself with common design patterns and system design principles to excel in this round.

Behavioral and HR Round

Finally, candidates who perform well in the technical rounds will undergo a behavioral and HR interview. This round assesses their interpersonal skills, cultural fit, and ability to work in a team. It is essential to showcase your teamwork, communication, and leadership skills during this round.

While the selection process in product-based companies may seem challenging, it is crucial to remember that each stage serves a specific purpose in identifying the right candidates. The rigorous nature of the process ensures that the company selects individuals who not only possess the necessary technical skills but also fit well within the company culture.

Furthermore, it is important to note that product-based companies often have high standards and expectations for their employees. They are looking for individuals who can contribute to the development and growth of their products, and who can adapt to the fast-paced and dynamic nature of the industry.

Therefore, it is essential for candidates to not only focus on technical knowledge but also demonstrate their passion for the product and their ability to think critically and creatively. 

How To Prepare For Product-Based Companies?

Now that we have a better understanding of product-based companies and their selection process, let’s explore the steps you can take to increase your chances of getting into these companies:

1. Understand the Company: Before applying to a product based company, it is crucial to research and understand the products or services they offer. Familiarize yourself with their mission, values, and culture to see if it aligns with your own goals and aspirations. This knowledge will not only help you during the interview process but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the company.

2. Enhance Your Technical Skills: Product based companies often look for candidates with strong technical skills. To stand out from the competition, consider upskilling in areas such as data structures, algorithms, and system design. Participating in coding competitions, online courses, and hackathons can help you sharpen your skills and showcase your abilities to potential employers.

In the following section, we’ll dive deeper into each of these aspects, providing you with a comprehensive guide on how to effectively prepare for your journey into a product-based company.

1) Create a List of Top Product Based Companies

Begin your preparation by creating a list of top product based companies that align with your interests and aspirations. Research these companies extensively, focusing on their culture, values, and the kind of products they develop. This will help you narrow down your options and set realistic goals for your job search.

How to Create Your Target List:

1. Identify Your Interests: Passion is key! Start by reflecting on the types of products, services, or technologies that genuinely interest you. Do you want to contribute to social media platforms, e-commerce giants, or cutting-edge AI solutions? This intrinsic motivation fuels your learning and interview performance.
2. Research Prominent Product Based Companies: Explore online resources like:
   • Glassdoor: Lists product-based companies with employee reviews and interview experiences.
   • Company websites – Learn about their products, mission, and culture.
3. Refine Your List: Based on your research and interests, select a group of 5-10 companies that truly resonate with you. This initial list can be a springboard for further exploration as you dive deeper into the preparation process.

Examples of Top Product Based Companies in India (2024):

• E-commerce and Retail: Flipkart, Myntra, Nykaa, Lenskart, Bigbasket
• Information Technology (IT): Infosys, Wipro, TCS, HCL Technologies, Tech Mahindra
• Software Products: Zoho, Druva, Freshworks, BrowserStack, Postman
• Fintech: Paytm, PhonePe, Razorpay, Policybazaar, CreditMantri
• Media and Entertainment: Hotstar, MX Player, Gaana, JioSaavn, Zomato
• Telecommunication: Reliance Jio, Airtel, Vodafone Idea, Bharti Airtel
• Manufacturing: Mahindra & Mahindra, Bajaj Auto, Tata Motors, Maruti Suzuki, Bharat Forge
• Consumer Goods: Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL), ITC Limited, Nestle India, Dabur India, Marico Limited
• Pharmaceuticals: Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Cipla, Lupin Limited, Divi’s Laboratories

2) Understand Required Skills For Product Based Companies

Each product-based company has its own set of required skills and technologies. Identify the key skills that are highly sought after in your target companies. For example, expertise in cloud computing, machine learning, or mobile application development might be essential for certain companies.

Understand Your Target Companies’ Skillset

• Research and Prioritize: Deep dive into the career pages, interview experiences, and technology blogs of your target companies. Identify skills like cloud computing, machine learning, or mobile development that frequently appear.
• Focus and Learn: Prioritize these skills and dedicate time to learning them. Online courses, coding challenges on platforms like LeetCode, and contributing to open-source projects are excellent learning avenues.

3) Prepare for Coding and Technical Interviews

The technical interviews in product-based companies are known to be rigorous and demanding. To excel in these interviews, emphasize the following areas:

3.1 DSA:

Develop a strong foundation in data structures and algorithms. This will help you effectively solve complex coding problems asked during technical interviews. 

• Solid Foundation: DSA forms the bedrock of your problem-solving prowess. Brush up on core data structures (arrays, linked lists, trees, graphs) and algorithms (sorting, searching, dynamic programming).
• Practice Makes Perfect: Utilize online platforms like InterviewBit, LeetCode, or HackerRank to tackle coding challenges of varying difficulty levels. This strengthens your problem-solving skills and helps you identify areas requiring further practice.
• Learn from Others: Explore solutions provided by other programmers, analyze different approaches, and understand the trade-offs between time and space complexity.

Here is a DSA Roadmap to get you started.

3.2 Computer Fundamentals:

Brush up on computer fundamentals such as operating systems, networking, and databases. Understanding these concepts will enhance your problem-solving abilities in technical interviews. 

• Operating Systems: Grasp the fundamentals of operating systems (OS) like memory management, process scheduling, and concurrency. Resources like Scaler Topics can help learn the basics.
• Networking: Understanding basic networking concepts like TCP/IP protocols and how data flows across networks will enhance your technical knowledge. Online tutorials or Coursera courses can provide a good starting point.
• Databases: Familiarity with SQL queries and relational database concepts is essential. Practice writing queries to retrieve and manipulate data efficiently.

3.3 System Design:

Gain proficiency in system design principles and learn how to design scalable and efficient systems. This knowledge will prove invaluable during system design interviews. Being able to architect systems that can handle large amounts of data, users, and transactions while maintaining performance and reliability is a key skill sought after by top tech companies.

• Conceptualize and Design: Practice designing software systems for various scenarios (e.g., e-commerce platform, social media app). Resources like “System Design Interview” – can guide you.
• Think Scalability and Maintainability: Focus on designing systems that can handle increasing user loads and are easy to maintain in the long term.
• Communicate Effectively: Explain your thought process clearly and explain design decisions during system design discussions.

3.4 Coding:

Regularly practice coding problems from reputable online platforms and competitions. This will sharpen your coding skills and improve your problem-solving capabilities. The more you practice writing code, the more comfortable and efficient you will become at translating your ideas into functional programs. Additionally, exposure to a variety of problem types will broaden your problem-solving toolkit.

• Choose a Programming Language: Learn at least one programming language relevant to product-based companies (e.g., Python, Java, C++). Practice writing clean, efficient, and well-documented code.
• Focus on Code Quality: Strive for code that is not only functional but also readable, maintainable, and adheres to best practices.
• Practice InterviewBit/LeetCode/HackerRank Problems: Online coding platforms offer a vast array of problems across different difficulty levels. Practice regularly to improve your coding speed and problem-solving approach.

3.5 Competitive Programming:

Engage in competitive programming contests to improve your speed and accuracy in solving algorithmic problems. Competing against other programmers will further enhance your problem-solving and time-management skills. These contests often present unique and challenging problems that require you to think on your feet and come up with creative solutions quickly. Participating in such competitions can also help you stay updated on the latest trends and techniques in the world of algorithms and data structures.

Platforms like CodeChef, HackerEarth, Hackerrank, or Topcoder offer a stimulating environment to challenge yourself against other programmers. This regular practice hones your coding speed, accuracy, and ability to solve problems efficiently.

Competitive programming is an additional tool to sharpen your skills. Focus on mastering the core areas first (DSA, Computer Fundamentals, System Design, Coding). However, if you’re passionate about problem-solving and want to push your limits, competitive programming can be highly rewarding.

4) Obtain Industry-Relevant Certifications

In addition to your technical skills, industry-relevant certifications can significantly boost your chances of getting hired by product-based companies. Some widely recognized certifications include:

• Scaler Software Development Certification
• AWS Developer Associate
• AWS Cloud Practitioner
• AZ 900 Cloud Fundamentals Certification
• CompTIA Security+

Industry-relevant certifications not only demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning and professional development but also provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in a competitive job market. By obtaining certifications such as the AWS Developer Associate, AWS Cloud Practitioner, AZ 900 Cloud Fundamentals, or CompTIA Security+, you can enhance your credibility and marketability to potential employers in the product-based industry. You can also consider exploring the Scaler Software Development Course, which equips you with essential skills, knowledge, and specialized training to meet the demands of product-based companies.

5) Build a Strong Portfolio and Resume

A strong portfolio and resume are crucial to stand out from the crowd. Showcase your technical projects, internships, and relevant work experience in your portfolio. Tailor your resume to highlight your achievements and skills that align with the requirements of product-based companies.

When building your portfolio, consider including a variety of projects that demonstrate your range of skills and interests. This could include web development projects, mobile applications, data analysis projects, or any other relevant work that showcases your abilities. Be sure to provide detailed descriptions of each project, including the technologies used, your role in the project, and any challenges you overcame.

• Focus on Quality over Quantity: Showcase 2-3 projects that demonstrate your best work, not an extensive list. Tailor your selection to the target companies and roles you’re applying to.
• Highlight Your Problem-Solving Skills: Describe the challenges your projects addressed and how your solutions made an impact. Include visuals (screenshots, diagrams) to explain your work.
• Open-Source Contributions: Participating in open-source projects can showcase your collaborative skills and passion for your field. Include them in your portfolio with links to the repository.
• Optimize your LinkedIn Profile: Your LinkedIn profile should be optimized according to your skills. Keep updating LinkedIn regularly. 

Where to Create a Portfolio?

Selecting the best platform depends on your technical skills, preferred level of customization, and the type of projects you want to showcase. Here’s a quick guide:

• For Developers: GitHub Pages or GitLab Pages are excellent choices due to their seamless integration with your code repositories.
• For Designers: Behance and Dribble are industry standards specifically designed for showcasing creative work.
• For Easy Customization: PortfolioFolio or Squarespace offer user-friendly interfaces and templates to create professional portfolios.
• For Maximum Control: If you’re comfortable with coding, building your own website provides ultimate customization.

Remember, the content is key. Regardless of the platform, ensure your portfolio highlights your skills, showcases your best projects with clear descriptions, and demonstrates the impact of your work.

Creating an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)-friendly resume is crucial for landing interviews at product-based companies. Here’s how to make them shine:

Craft an ATS-Friendly Resume:

• Structure and Formatting: Use a clear and simple format with consistent fonts and headings. Avoid fancy graphics or unusual layouts that ATS might struggle to read.
• Keywords and Skills: Carefully analyze job descriptions and incorporate relevant keywords and technical skills throughout your resume. This helps your resume get past the initial ATS screening.
• Action Verbs: Use strong action verbs like “developed,” “designed,” “implemented,” or “optimized” to describe your accomplishments. Quantify your results whenever possible (e.g., “increased user engagement by 20%”).
• Keywords in File Name: Save your resume with a filename that includes your full name and the position you’re applying for (e.g., John_Doe_Software_Engineer.docx). This helps with keyword matching.

Tailor Your Resume for Each Company:

• Highlight Relevant Experiences: While having a master resume is helpful as a starting point, tailor your resume for each company by focusing on experiences and skills most relevant to their specific needs.

By building an ATS-friendly resume, tailoring it to each company, and crafting a compelling portfolio, you’ll effectively communicate your value to product-based companies. This increases your chances of securing an interview and landing your dream job!

6) Preparing for the Aptitude and Logical Reasoning Round

Many product-based companies include aptitude and logical reasoning assessments in their selection process. Practice solving aptitude questions, logical puzzles, and reasoning problems to improve your performance in these rounds. Familiarize yourself with the common question types and hone your analytical thinking skills.

It is crucial to understand that the aptitude and logical reasoning round is designed to test your problem-solving abilities, critical thinking skills, and decision-making under pressure. 

Here’s how to excel in this round:

Understanding the Format:

These rounds typically involve a computer-based test with multiple-choice questions covering various areas:

• Quantitative Aptitude: Questions on arithmetic, algebra, geometry, percentages, averages, ratios, and probability.
• Logical Reasoning: Tests your ability to analyze information, identify patterns, and draw logical conclusions. This could include data analysis, verbal reasoning, critical thinking, and puzzle-solving.

Developing Your Skills:

• Practice Online: Numerous online resources offer practice tests and coding problems to improve your problem-solving and logical reasoning skills. Platforms like InterviewBit and Scaler provide a vast pool of interview questions, online courses, and mock interviews to help you prepare for product-based company interviews.
• Books and Mock Tests: Consider purchasing books or subscribing to online platforms that offer mock tests simulating the actual aptitude and logical reasoning rounds conducted by companies. You can consider “Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations” by R.S. Aggarwal.

Tips for Success:

• Sharpen Your Math Skills: Brush up on basic mathematical concepts and calculations. Speed and accuracy are crucial in this time-bound test.
• Identify Patterns: Logical reasoning often involves identifying patterns in information or sequences. Practice recognizing these patterns and using them to solve problems.
• Time Management: Practice managing your time effectively during mock tests to ensure you attempt all questions within the allotted time.

7) Ready Yourself for the HR and Behavioral Round

Finally, prepare for the HR and behavioral rounds by familiarizing yourself with common HR interview questions. 

The HR and behavioral round is your chance to showcase your soft skills, personality, and cultural fit for the company. This round typically involves one-on-one conversations with HR representatives or hiring managers. Here’s how to prepare and make a strong impression:

Understanding the Focus:

This round tests your:

• Communication Skills: The ability to articulate your thoughts clearly, concisely, and professionally.
• Problem-Solving and Teamwork: Examples of how you tackled challenges and collaborated effectively with others.
• Motivation and Passion: Your enthusiasm for the role and the company’s mission.
• Cultural Fit: Your alignment with the company’s values and work style.

Preparing for Common HR Questions:

• “Tell me about yourself” – This is your chance to deliver a concise and engaging elevator pitch highlighting your skills and career goals.
• “Why are you interested in this role?” – Research the company and position thoroughly. Demonstrate your understanding of their work and how your skills align with their needs.
• “Describe a time you faced a challenge and how you overcame it” – Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your response. Focus on highlighting your critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and ability to learn from experiences.
• “Tell me about a time you worked effectively in a team” – Highlight your teamwork abilities, communication skills, and how you contributed to a successful outcome.
• “Do you have any questions for me?” – Always have thoughtful questions prepared about the company, role, and team. This demonstrates genuine interest and initiative.

Remember:

The HR round is a two-way street. While they assess you, you are also evaluating the company culture and whether it aligns with your values and career aspirations.

By preparing for common questions, showcasing your soft skills, and demonstrating your genuine interest, you can excel in the HR round and leave a lasting positive impression on potential employers at product-based companies.

Expert Tips on Getting a Job in Product Based Company

Here are some additional, "secret" tips for landing a job at a product-based company:

Target the Right Companies:

• Beyond the Big Names: While top companies are attractive, consider high-growth startups or established players in niche markets. They might offer a steeper learning curve, more ownership of projects, and potentially faster career growth.
• Company Culture Matters: Research the company culture beyond mission statements. Look for employee reviews, social media presence, and interview experiences to understand if the environment aligns with your work style and values.

Stand Out From the Crowd:

• Build a Personal Brand: Develop a strong online presence showcasing your skills and interests. Contribute to technical blogs, participate in online forums, or even start your own blog to establish yourself as a thought leader.
• Make Use of Your Network: Inform your network (friends, family, former colleagues) about your job search. You never know who might have valuable connections or insights into potential opportunities.
• Quantify Your Impact Whenever Possible: Use metrics to showcase the impact of your work in previous roles. Did you increase user engagement by X%? Reduce processing time by Y%? Quantifiable achievements grab attention.

The Interview Process – Going the Extra Mile:

• Tailor Your Responses: Don’t give generic answers. Research the company’s specific products, challenges, and recent news. Show genuine interest and how your skills can address their needs.
• Prepare Questions for the Interviewer: Demonstrate your curiosity and initiative by having well-thought-out questions about the role, team, and company culture.
• Follow Up with Enthusiasm: Express your gratitude for the interview opportunity and reiterate your strong interest in the role within 24 hours.

By following these tips and approaching your job search strategically, you can increase your chances of landing your dream role at a product-based company. Remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Be persistent, stay focused, and keep learning – and success will surely follow.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Job Application and Interview Process

Landing your dream job at a product-based company requires a strategic approach, but even the most qualified candidates can stumble if they make avoidable mistakes. 

Here’s a breakdown of common mistakes to avoid throughout the application and interview process:

Avoid Application Blunders:

• Generic resume/cover letter – Tailor them to each company!
• Typos/Grammar errors – Proofread meticulously!
• Incomplete applications – Double-check everything before submitting!

Avoid These Interview Mistakes:

• Unprepared/Late arrival: Research & plan your trip beforehand!
• Unprofessional attire: Dress appropriately for the company culture.
• Negative body language: Maintain good posture and eye contact.
• Bad-mouthing past employers: Focus on the positive and your growth.
• Unrealistic salary expectations: Research average salary ranges.

How Can Scaler Help You Get into a Product-Based Company?

If you want a program that can help you land a job at a big tech company, Scaler Academy is the way to go! Scaler’s software engineering course covers everything from the basics to getting you ready for job interviews.

But it’s not just about learning technical stuff. Scaler Academy also helps you with things like writing a good resume and preparing for interviews. Plus, you’ll have mentors who’ve been there and done that, and you’ll study alongside other motivated people who keep you on track.

Scaler Academy gives you the skills, confidence, and support you need to ace your interviews and get hired at a top company. It’s not just a course; it’s an investment in your future career.

Conclusion

Getting into the world of big tech companies takes dedication, planning, and a willingness to learn and grow. By improving your tech skills, building a strong portfolio, and going into interviews with confidence, you’ll have a better shot at getting the job you want. Just remember, it’s a journey that never really ends. Keep learning, keep trying, and keep getting better. With the right attitude, you can turn your dream of working at a top company into reality.

FAQs