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Google·Technical Product Manager·Hiring Manager Screen·Senior

Senior
Apr 2026

Summary

TPM interview at Google with a scenario-based question about project overlap. Just the one question from what I can tell, but it packed a lot into it.

Questions Asked (1)

Q1

You're six months into a twelve-month project and you discover in a meeting that another team has been building the same thing. What do you do?

Cross-functional AlignmentStakeholder ManagementConflict Resolution
Author's notes

I went straight to 'set up a sync meeting' which felt right but I think I skipped over the part where you actually figure out how much overlap there really is before doing anything.

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AI HintsAI Generated

Suggested Approach

Acknowledge the duplication as a common challenge in large organizations, then focus on a collaborative resolution that prioritizes company goals over team ownership. Outline a structured process to assess overlap, align stakeholders, and decide on a path forward that maximizes value and minimizes waste.

Pro tip: Emphasize that you would approach the other team with curiosity and a shared goal, not defensiveness, and highlight how you'd use data to inform the decision. Demonstrating that you can turn a potential conflict into an opportunity for cross-team synergy will set you apart.

1. Pause and Assess

Take a step back to gather facts: understand exactly what the other team is building, their progress, and their goals. Avoid reacting immediately; instead, seek to understand the full picture.

2. Initiate Cross-Team Dialogue

Reach out to the other team's lead to set up a meeting. Approach with curiosity and a collaborative mindset, aiming to understand their perspective and share yours.

3. Evaluate Overlap and Options

Jointly map out the similarities and differences in scope, timeline, and technical approach. Identify possible paths: merge efforts, divide work, or pivot one team to a different problem.

4. Align on a Path Forward

With stakeholders, including leadership if needed, decide on the best option based on company priorities, resource efficiency, and strategic value. Document the decision and communicate it clearly.

5. Implement and Monitor

Execute the agreed plan, ensuring clear ownership and communication. Set up regular check-ins to prevent future duplication and maintain alignment.

Key Points to Mention

  • Assume positive intent: the other team likely didn't know about your work either.
  • Focus on company goals over team or personal ownership.
  • Use data (e.g., feature comparison, timelines, costs) to inform decisions.
  • Involve key stakeholders early, including leadership if necessary, to resolve conflicts.
  • Communicate transparently and document decisions to maintain trust.
  • Establish processes to prevent future duplication, such as shared roadmaps or regular syncs.

AI-generated suggestions, not part of the candidate's original notes. May be inaccurate — verify before relying on them.