Associates, Come to the Front - APMM vs APM Explained
When I was an apprentice at Meta, I met quite a few associates doing something similar to what I was doing, but their paths looked a little different.
While I was part of a six-month career pivot program as a researcher, many associates were in career starter programs—sometimes lasting 1-2 years. These programs offered rotations across different teams, full-time benefits, mentorship, and a built-in community.
If you’ve been searching for ways to break into tech, you’ve probably heard about Associate programs, especially in Product Marketing and Product Management. These programs can feel like a secret door into the industry, but since we don’t gate keep over here — welcome to the third installment of Weekly Job Hunting Tips! Where we’ll dive into what these programs are all about and how to prepare to apply.
Associate Programs - what are those?
At their core, Associate programs are designed for early-career professionals. Think of them as launch pads that give you the tools, experience, and network you need to grow. Two of the most well-known examples are:
Associate Product Marketing Manager (APMM) programs focus on helping you understand how to position, market, and tell the story of a product.
Associate Product Manager (APM) programs train you to manage and build products, working closely with engineers, designers, and cross-functional teams.
While both programs offer incredible opportunities, the key difference lies in their focus:
APMMs work on things like branding, go-to-market strategies, and customer engagement.
APMs are more involved in the product development cycle, like feature prioritization and product roadmaps.
But, who’s Hiring?
Plenty of tech companies offer Associate programs, each with its own spin. Here are a few of the most popular ones to have on your radar:
🔴 Google APMM Program
Let’s start with the OG: Google’s APMM program. It’s no surprise that this program gets the most buzz. I overheard in San Francisco that one of Instagram’s founders, Kevin Systrom, was part of it. So, If you’re dreaming of building something as iconic as IG, this is worth a look.
Details: A two-year rotational program designed for recent grads with less than three years of experience. Participants work on real products, gaining insights and mentorship from seasoned pros.
Locations: New York, San Bruno.
Application Deadline: March 31.
🔵 LinkedIn Associate Program Manager
As a LinkedIn alum, I can confidently say this company practice what it preaches They haven’t rolled back their DEI efforts (as of writing this), and their mission of creating economic opportunity is truly reflected in their programs.
Details: A two-year rotational program with full-time roles on LinkedIn teams. You’ll have mentorship, peer support, and development opportunities. After the program, you can transition to new teams or roles.
💓 Lyft Associate Product Manager Program
I’ve never worked at Lyft, but I have visited their San Francisco office—and let me tell you, it’s adorable. The fact that they’re investing in early talent programs like this shows their commitment to fostering growth.
Details: A rotational program tailored to Lyft’s unique product ecosystem, offering mentorship and exposure to various product teams.
🔷 Atlassian APM Program
While I haven’t worked at Atlassian, they’ve been recognized as a Fortune Future 50 company and landed on the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list. If people love working there, it’s probably for good reason, right?
Details: A two-year program offering rotations across different product teams. Participants gain hands-on experience and mentorship along the way.
How to Land the Role
Getting into these programs is competitive, but not to worry, preparation can set you apart. Here are some commonly asked Interview Questions.
General Questions
Talk to me about a recent marketing campaign that caught your eye.
What’s your favorite product, and how would you improve it?
Marketing Strategy
What’s an example of a great product currently in the market that’s marketed poorly?
The Spotify marketing team is experiencing drop-offs in the sales funnel for Spotify Premium. What metrics would you track to identify issues?
Cross-Functional Collaboration
You’re the Product Marketing Manager for Salesforce CRM. How would you train the sales team on the product’s value proposition?
Product Sense
Critique a website or app.
What are the top three segments for the Apple Watch?
Marketing Case
How would you find the cost to acquire a customer for a product (e.g., Chromebook)?
If you’re looking for structured growth, mentorship, and the chance to explore different areas within tech, Associate programs are worth considering. They’re not just about learning—they’re about doing.
As someone who’s been through an early-career program myself, I know how career-defining they can be. If you need help preparing your application, drop your questions in the comments or 📆book time to chat with me.
Let’s get it💪🏾!
Join the ✨Fifty50 Initiative✨ community for more career advice, tools, and support. Together, we’re creating blueprints for success—one week and one tip at a time.
〰T.
