Starry, Inc. Product Manager Interview Questions + Guide in 2025

Starry, Inc. is an innovative startup focused on delivering high-speed internet access and enhancing connectivity solutions in urban areas.

As a Product Manager at Starry, you will play a crucial role in driving the vision and strategy of the company's product offerings. Your key responsibilities will include collaborating with cross-functional teams—such as engineering, design, and marketing—to identify customer needs and translate them into actionable product features. You will be expected to conduct market research to inform product development, manage the product lifecycle from conception to launch, and continuously iterate based on user feedback and performance metrics. The role requires strong analytical skills to evaluate data and make data-driven decisions, as well as the ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

A successful Product Manager at Starry will possess a growth mindset, adaptability, and a passion for technology and connectivity solutions. Experience in agile methodologies and familiarity with networking concepts will also be advantageous, given Starry's focus on internet services. Additionally, a strong customer-centric approach and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced startup environment are essential traits that align with Starry's core values.

This guide aims to equip you with a deeper understanding of the role and the types of questions you may encounter, thereby enhancing your preparation for the interview process at Starry.

The interview process for a Product Manager at Starry, Inc. is designed to assess both technical and interpersonal skills, reflecting the dynamic nature of the startup environment. The process typically unfolds in several key stages:

1. Initial Phone Screen

The first step is a phone screen, usually lasting around 30 to 45 minutes, conducted by a recruiter. This conversation focuses on your background, motivations for applying to Starry, and basic qualifications related to product management. Expect to discuss your understanding of the company’s mission and how your experience aligns with their goals. This is also an opportunity for you to ask questions about the company culture and the role itself.

2. Technical Assessment

Following the initial screen, candidates may be required to complete a technical assessment. This could involve a programming assignment or a project that tests your problem-solving abilities and understanding of product management principles. The assignment is typically designed to evaluate your planning, coding style, and ability to meet specific objectives. Be prepared to dedicate significant time to this task, as it is a critical component of the evaluation process.

3. Video Interview with Hiring Manager

Next, candidates will have a video interview with the hiring manager. This session often includes more in-depth questions about your problem-solving approach, particularly in areas relevant to networking and product development. The hiring manager may assess your ability to think critically and apply your knowledge to real-world scenarios. It’s essential to demonstrate your understanding of the product lifecycle and how you would approach challenges in a fast-paced startup environment.

4. Onsite Interviews

If you progress past the previous stages, you will be invited for onsite interviews. This typically consists of multiple rounds with various team members, including cross-functional stakeholders. Each session may focus on different aspects of product management, such as user experience, market analysis, and team collaboration. Expect a mix of behavioral and situational questions that gauge your fit within the team and your ability to handle the demands of a startup.

5. Final Evaluation and Offer

After the onsite interviews, the team will convene to discuss your performance across all stages. If you receive positive feedback, you may be extended an offer. However, communication during this stage can vary, and some candidates have reported delays or a lack of follow-up. It’s advisable to remain proactive and inquire about the next steps if you haven’t heard back within a reasonable timeframe.

As you prepare for your interview, consider the types of questions that may arise during this process, particularly those that assess your technical knowledge and problem-solving skills.

Here are some tips to help you excel in your interview.

Prepare for a Multi-Round Process

The interview process at Starry can involve multiple rounds, including phone screenings, technical assessments, and in-person interviews. Be ready to discuss your experience in detail and demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Familiarize yourself with the structure of the interviews and the types of questions you might encounter. This preparation will help you navigate the process more smoothly and leave a positive impression.

Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills

As a Product Manager, you will likely face questions that assess your analytical and problem-solving abilities. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your past experiences where you successfully tackled challenges. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure your responses, ensuring you clearly articulate your thought process and the impact of your decisions.

Understand the Technical Landscape

While you may not be expected to have deep technical expertise, a solid understanding of networking concepts and product management principles is crucial. Brush up on relevant technical knowledge, especially if your background is not heavily focused on networking. This will help you engage more effectively with technical interviewers and demonstrate your willingness to learn.

Emphasize Cultural Fit

Starry values a positive and collaborative work environment. During your interviews, express your enthusiasm for working in a fast-paced startup and your ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Highlight experiences where you thrived in team settings and contributed to a positive culture. This will resonate well with interviewers who are looking for candidates that align with their company values.

Ask Insightful Questions

At the end of your interviews, you will likely have the opportunity to ask questions. Use this time wisely to demonstrate your interest in the company and the role. Inquire about the team dynamics, the company's vision, and how the Product Manager role contributes to overall success. Thoughtful questions can leave a lasting impression and show that you are genuinely invested in the opportunity.

Be Prepared for Feedback and Communication

Candidates have noted varying experiences with communication during the interview process. Be proactive in seeking feedback after interviews and assignments. If you are given a project, ensure you understand the expectations and timelines. Following up respectfully can demonstrate your commitment and professionalism, even if the process feels frustrating at times.

Stay Positive and Resilient

The startup environment can be unpredictable, and experiences may vary from candidate to candidate. Maintain a positive attitude throughout the interview process, regardless of any challenges you may face. Resilience is a valuable trait in a Product Manager, and showcasing this quality can set you apart from other candidates.

By following these tips and preparing thoroughly, you can position yourself as a strong candidate for the Product Manager role at Starry, Inc. Good luck!

In this section, we’ll review the various interview questions that might be asked during a Product Manager interview at Starry, Inc. The interview process will likely focus on your problem-solving abilities, understanding of networking concepts, and your fit within a fast-paced startup environment. Be prepared to discuss your previous experiences, technical knowledge, and how you can contribute to the company's mission.

Experience and Background

1. Why do you want to work at Starry, and how do you see yourself contributing to our mission?

This question assesses your motivation for applying and your understanding of the company's goals.

How to Answer

Articulate your passion for the company's mission and how your skills align with their objectives. Highlight specific aspects of Starry that resonate with you.

Example

“I am drawn to Starry’s commitment to providing affordable internet access to underserved communities. My background in product management and my experience in the tech industry equip me to contribute effectively to your mission by developing user-centric products that enhance connectivity.”

Networking Knowledge

2. What would be your process of checking internet connectivity if you received an error while trying to access a website?

This question evaluates your problem-solving skills and understanding of networking.

How to Answer

Outline a systematic approach to troubleshooting connectivity issues, demonstrating your analytical thinking and technical knowledge.

Example

“I would start by checking the device’s connection to the network, ensuring that Wi-Fi is enabled and the device is connected. Next, I would run a ping test to see if the website is reachable, followed by checking the DNS settings. If the issue persists, I would investigate potential router or ISP problems.”

3. Why is your download speed worse in a different room than if you were right next to the router?

This question tests your understanding of networking principles and environmental factors affecting connectivity.

How to Answer

Discuss factors such as signal strength, interference, and physical barriers that can impact Wi-Fi performance.

Example

“The download speed can be affected by distance from the router, as Wi-Fi signals weaken over distance. Additionally, physical barriers like walls and interference from other electronic devices can disrupt the signal, leading to slower speeds in different rooms.”

Technical Skills

4. Can you explain the difference between TCP and UDP?

This question assesses your knowledge of networking protocols.

How to Answer

Provide a concise comparison of the two protocols, focusing on their characteristics and use cases.

Example

“TCP is a connection-oriented protocol that ensures reliable data transmission through error checking and acknowledgment, making it suitable for applications like web browsing. In contrast, UDP is connectionless and does not guarantee delivery, making it ideal for real-time applications like video streaming where speed is prioritized over reliability.”

5. What is the correct function call in C to free allocated memory?

This question tests your programming knowledge and understanding of memory management.

How to Answer

Clearly state the function and explain its importance in managing memory.

Example

“The correct function call in C to free allocated memory is free(pointer);. It is crucial to prevent memory leaks by releasing memory that is no longer needed, ensuring efficient use of resources.”

Problem-Solving and Analytical Skills

6. Describe a challenging project you managed and how you overcame obstacles.

This question evaluates your project management skills and ability to navigate challenges.

How to Answer

Share a specific example that highlights your problem-solving abilities and leadership skills.

Example

“In my previous role, I managed a project with tight deadlines and limited resources. I prioritized tasks, delegated responsibilities effectively, and maintained open communication with the team. By adapting our strategy and focusing on key deliverables, we successfully completed the project on time.”

7. How do you prioritize features in a product roadmap?

This question assesses your strategic thinking and decision-making process.

How to Answer

Discuss your approach to prioritization, including factors you consider and any frameworks you use.

Example

“I prioritize features based on customer feedback, market research, and alignment with business goals. I often use the MoSCoW method to categorize features into must-haves, should-haves, could-haves, and won’t-haves, ensuring that we focus on delivering maximum value to our users.”

Cultural Fit

8. How do you handle working in a fast-paced startup environment?

This question gauges your adaptability and comfort level in a dynamic setting.

How to Answer

Share your experiences in similar environments and how you thrive under pressure.

Example

“I thrive in fast-paced environments as they challenge me to think quickly and adapt. In my previous startup, I learned to prioritize tasks effectively and maintain flexibility, which allowed me to contribute to multiple projects simultaneously while ensuring quality outcomes.”

9. What do you believe is the most important quality for a Product Manager in a startup?

This question assesses your understanding of the role and its demands.

How to Answer

Identify a key quality and explain why it is essential for success in a startup context.

Example

“I believe adaptability is the most important quality for a Product Manager in a startup. The ability to pivot quickly in response to changing market conditions and user feedback is crucial for driving product success and ensuring the company remains competitive.”