TryExponent Review – is this worth it?

TryExponent promises to sharpen your skills and boost your confidence with its diverse courses specifically for interviews.

But how effective is it? Does it live up to its claims of being an all-in-one platform that helps you land your dream job? That’s exactly what I’m here to find out.

Throughout this review, I’ll take a closer look at what TryExponent offers. 

We’ll explore its Exponent’s features and dive into the course content that covers everything from product management to machine learning.

I’ll also break down the pricing structure so you can see whether it fits your budget and if it’s worth the investment. 

And of course, we’ll wrap up with an assessment of its overall value, weighing the pros and cons to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your career aspirations.

So, if you’re ready to get the inside scoop on how TryExponent can help you nail your next tech interview, let’s get started!

What is TryExponent?

TryExponent is a dynamic interview preparation platform designed to help aspiring professionals excel in tech interviews.

It specifically targets roles like product management, software engineering, data science, and beyond. 

Founded in 2018 by Stephen Cognetta and Jacob Simon, the platform emerged from the founders’ experiences at top tech companies and their vision to demystify the tech interview process. 

Based in the bustling tech hub of the San Francisco Bay Area, TryExponent aims to bridge the gap between you and your dream jobs by providing expert-led resources.

Stephen Cognetta, a former product manager at Google, and Jacob Simon, a former software engineer at Dropbox, brought together their wealth of experience in the tech industry to create a platform that directly addresses the needs of job seekers. 

Their backgrounds in both large-scale tech environments and YC-backed startups give them a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed in the competitive world of tech interviews. 

Their mission is simple. To equip you with the tools, knowledge, and confidence you need to navigate the rigorous interview processes at top tech companies.

It’s particularly beneficial for aspiring product managers, software engineers, data scientists, and engineering managers, offering courses that cover everything from technical skills to strategic thinking. 

The platform doesn’t just focus on one area. It provides a wide suite of resources that include interview questions, peer mock interviews, resume reviews, and even salary negotiation coaching.

One of TryExponent’s standout features is its ability to cater to various tech roles and companies. 

So if you’re preparing for a product management interview at a FAANG company or tackling coding challenges for a software engineering position, TryExponent has content to meet your needs. 

Obviously, it stands out as a perfect preparation tool if you’re serious about breaking into or advancing within the tech industry. 

TryExponent offers not just theoretical knowledge, but practical, insider insights that can make all the difference in landing your next role.

Key Features of TryExponent

1. Comprehensive Course Content 

One of TryExponent’s standout features is its extensive library of courses starting from product management to data science and software engineering. 

The platform built a structured learning path for each role, making it easier for you to focus on the specific skills and knowledge needed to ace your interviews. 

Each course is meticulously designed with a combination of modules that include instructional videos, practical exercises, and mock interviews. 

For example, the Data Science Interview Course features seven courses with over 2,100 students enrolled.

The course in-depth covers topics like statistics, SQL, coding, machine learning, and data communication. 

It uses interview rubrics, practical frameworks, and extensive mock videos to help you master the intricacies of data science interviews.

Similarly, the Product Skills Course comprises four modules, with around 2,000 students, focusing on the fundamentals of product management. 

This course covers the essential skills you need as product managers, such as strategic thinking, product design, and stakeholder communication. 

Each module is broken down into digestible lessons that make you manageable and effective.

If you’re eyeing leadership roles, TryExponent provides courses like the Amazon Software Development Manager (SDM) Interview Course. 

This learning path consists of five courses with approximately 2,000 students and covers the Amazon SDM interview loop in detail. 

It includes modules on system design, team planning, and people management.

This provides a comprehensive guide to excelling in engineering management interviews.

The UX/Product Design Interview Course includes five courses aimed at preparing you for UX and visual design interviews. 

It emphasizes critical design concepts and includes modules that help you understand how to showcase your design thinking and problem-solving skills effectively during interviews.

TryExponent also caters to niche roles such as Solutions Architects, with courses focusing on the specific needs of these professionals. 

The Amazon AWS Solutions Architect Interview Course includes seven modules with an emphasis on system design principles, cloud architecture, and leadership principles for AWS roles.

Across all these courses and others, TryExponent’s approach is highly practical. 

Each module is packed with engaging videos that break down complex topics into understandable segments. 

Exercises are designed to reinforce learning and allow you to apply what you’ve learned in real-world scenarios. 

2. Mock Interviews and Feedback 

The mock interviews are conducted in a collaborative environment where you can schedule sessions that fit your availability and be matched with peers who are preparing for the same interviews. 

During each session, participants take turns role-playing as both the interviewer and interviewee.

With this, both perspectives are gaining valuable experience from each other.

The process begins with scheduling a practice session, where you can select your preferred interview type, such as product management, behavioral, data structures & algorithms, or system design. 

Once matched, you then engage in hour-long interviews over video calls, utilizing collaborative tools like code editors for technical interviews. 

After each session, you can exchange detailed and actionable feedback, providing insights into your strengths and areas for improvement. 

This blend of peer interaction and expert-informed frameworks ensures that you not only practice interview questions but also receive constructive feedback.

Definitely, these feedbacks meet industry standards, making the preparation process more effective and closely aligned with actual job requirements.

3. Coaching Community and Networking 

Exponent also provides a vibrant community where you can connect with peers, industry experts, and career coaches.

This community creates a supportive environment for professional growth. 

You can  engage in discussions, share experiences, and seek advice on various career challenges. 

Mentorship is another key component of Exponent’s offering. You’ll have access to vetted industry experts from top companies like Google, Meta, Airbnb, and Amazon. 

You can work with these coaches to receive personalized guidance on your career journey.

Doing this will help refine your interviewing skills, perfect your resumes, or enhance your communication abilities. 

This mentorship extends to topics like job negotiation and long-term career planning. 

4. Interactive Tools and Resources 

Exponent has wide interactive tools and resources designed to help you excel in your job search and interview preparation. 

The tool includes case study templates, frameworks, and coding exercises for different roles. 

These tools enable you to practice and refine your skills in a structured manner, ensuring that you’re well-prepared for the challenges of real-world interviews.

Additionally, Exponent also offers daily practice features like Daily Product Prep, which helps you regularly engage with new interview questions and scenarios, keeping your skills sharp and up-to-date.

The platform extends to career-enhancing tools such as resume optimization with JobScan, negotiation coaching with Levels.fyi, and personalized mentorship opportunities through Merit. 

5. Interview Questions  

Exponent provides an extensive database of over 3,158 interview questions and answers, verified by hiring managers and candidates. 

This feature allows you to explore a wide range of questions for various roles.

It makes sure you’re well-prepared for specific interview scenarios. 

The questions can be filtered by role, company, categories, and trending topics, enabling you to focus on the most relevant content for your needs. 

This comprehensive collection covers technical, behavioral, and role-specific questions, helping you practice and refine your responses. 

By reviewing these verified questions and answers, you gain insights into what top companies are looking for and can approach your interviews with increased confidence and preparation. 

Pricing and Payment Options 

When it comes to investing in your career, TryExponent offers a range of flexible pricing options to suit your needs.

Let’s break down everything you need to know about their subscription models, what each tier includes, the payment methods available, and the refund policy that ensures your satisfaction.

Subscription Models

TryExponent has designed its subscription plans to offer maximum value for a short-term seeker or a more extended investor. Here’s a closer look:

1. Monthly Plan: At $79 per month, this plan gives you full access without a long-term commitment. 

It’s perfect if you want to test the waters or if your interview prep is focused on the short term. 

You’ll get complete access to all courses, expert video answers, over 250 hours of course content, and access to peer mock interviews. 

It’s like having a personal coach, but with the flexibility to cancel whenever you want.

2. Annual Plan: If you’re committed to long-term preparation, the annual plan is a steal at just $12 per month, billed as a single payment. 

That’s a whopping 70% savings compared to the monthly option. 

This plan includes everything in the monthly plan, plus a sense of commitment that can keep you motivated. 

The annual plan gives you full access to over 400 interview lessons and questions, and detailed video walkthroughs. 

The membership also includes 200+ hours of real interview videos with in-depth analyses, making it easier to identify what works and what doesn’t. 

Additionally, you’ll be part of an exclusive Slack community filled with like-minded individuals and industry experts who can offer real-time advice, support, and encouragement.

What’s Included in Each Tier?

Both the monthly and annual subscriptions include access to all of TryExponent’s courses across a variety of fields. 

You’ll also get unlimited peer mock interviews, which are incredibly valuable for gaining practical experience and building confidence. 

The subscription also unlocks access to the database of 2,300+ real interview questions sourced from top tech companies, along with priority job referrals to a network of over 400 industry insiders who can help you land your dream job faster.

Payment Methods

Subscribing to TryExponent is very easy, thanks to its wide range of accepted payment methods. 

The platform accepts major credit and debit cards, making it easy for you to get started quickly. 

The checkout process clearly outlines all accepted methods, ensuring you can choose the one that works best for you.

Refund Policy

TryExponent stands by the quality of refund policy that puts your satisfaction first. 

If you find that the platform doesn’t meet your needs or expectations, you can request a full refund within 5 days of your purchase. 

This risk-free approach means you can explore all the resources and start practicing with peace of mind. 

To initiate a refund, simply reach out to TryExponent’s support team, who are always ready to assist and resolve any concerns. 

It’s clear that TryExponent values its users and strives to ensure you feel confident and satisfied with your investment.

Why Choose TryExponent?

These flexible pricing options means you’re not just paying for a subscription, you’re investing in your future. 

And with the supportive refund policy, you can try the service without any worries, knowing that your satisfaction is a priority.

In summary, TryExponent’s approach to pricing, payments, and customer satisfaction makes it an excellent choice for anyone serious about acing their next big interview. 

So why wait? Explore the plans, find the one that suits you, and start your journey toward landing that dream job today.

Quality of Instructors and Content

At TryExponent, you’re not just gaining access to course materials; you’re getting the opportunity to learn from a team of seasoned professionals. 

Let’s dive into what makes the quality of instructors and content at TryExponent stand out from the crowd.

1. Providing Instructor Expertise Background 

One of TryExponent’s key strengths lies in the exceptional background and qualifications of its instructors. 

Its experts range from seasoned product managers and engineers to specialized roles like technical sourcers and machine learning engineers. 

They are professionals who have walked the walk and are currently embedded in some of the most influential tech companies, such as Microsoft, Amazon, Google, and Snap. 

Their experience spans a broad spectrum of fields including machine learning, technical program management, product management, and more. 

Take Emily C., for example. She’s a technical recruiter who brings her expertise in candidate engagement and a passion for diversity and inclusion from her role at Microsoft. 

Or Ajith Kumar G., a machine learning engineer with hands-on experience in developing AI-driven products across multiple industries. 

This level of real-world experience means that the advice and strategies you receive are not just theoretical but deeply rooted in the current tech landscape. 

Moreover, the instructors have been rigorously vetted and hand-picked. They not only possess the right knowledge but also excel at communicating complex concepts in a way that’s accessible and actionable.

2. Industry Experience and How It Translate into the Course Content

What sets TryExponent apart is how effectively the instructors’ industry experience translates into the course content. 

Each course and coaching session is infused with insights that only someone deeply embedded in the industry could provide. 

Just like Nathan Y., who has managed product roles at Microsoft and Amazon, sharing his hands-on strategies for AR/VR product management.

Also, Ray S., a senior recruiter from Facebook, giving you insider tips on navigating tech interviews.

You can see the guidance is both relevant and immediately applicable. Right?

This practical, insider perspective helps bridge the gap between theory and practice.

In essence, you will get equipped with skills that are directly transferable to your interviews and job roles.

2. Content Depth and Relevance

When it comes to course material, TryExponent doesn’t just scratch the surface. 

The content is thoughtfully structured to cover every aspect of the interview process, from foundational concepts to advanced strategies. 

There’s over 400 interview lessons and 2,300+ real interview questions sourced from top tech companies.

This extensive library ensures you’re prepared for any possible questions and scenarios during your interview.

User Experience

Exponent excels in delivering a website that is not only packed with valuable content but also designed to be intuitive and user-friendly. 

Let’s explore the different facets of Exponent’s user experience, including platform usability, account setup, onboarding, and support services.

Platform Usability

From the moment you land on the homepage, it’s evident that the platform is crafted with you in their mind. 

The interface is modern and uncluttered, simple color schemes, and intuitive icons that guide you effortlessly. 

The site’s functionality gives a smooth experience whether you’re accessing it from a desktop, tablet, or smartphone.

The menus are logically arranged, and the search functions allow you to quickly find specific lessons, interview questions, or desired coaches.

Account Setup and Onboarding

Getting started with Exponent is as simple as it gets. 

It offers multiple sign-up options, including Google, Facebook, LinkedIn, or your university credentials, making the process quick and convenient. 

Alternatively, you can sign up using your email address and a password, with clear prompts guiding you every step of the way. 

This initial setup ensures that you can quickly get up to speed and start your interview preparation journey without any friction.

Support and Customer Service

The availability of support is highlighted on the platform, and you can access help through various channels, including email and the support section on the website. 

In case you encounter a technical glitch or need assistance with choosing the right coaching package, Exponent’s customer service team is ready to help.

Additionally, the platform’s comprehensive FAQ section and help guides provide immediate answers to common questions.

Pros of Using TryExponent

1. Expert Coaching: These coaches bring a wealth of real-world experience from top tech companies, ensuring that you receive relevant and actionable advice for your specific career goals.

2. Comprehensive Learning Resources: Exponent offers a wide range of resources that go beyond traditional study materials. 

There’s mock interviews, resume reviews and negotiation coaching that covers every aspect of your job search process.

3. User-Friendly Platform: The platform is designed to make navigation simple and efficient, ensuring that you can focus on learning without getting bogged down by technical difficulties.

4. Flexible Scheduling: There are coaches available across multiple time zones and flexible scheduling options.

This flexibility allows you to fit coaching sessions and study time into your schedule.

5. High Success Rate: Many users of TryExponent report significant improvements in their interview skills and overall job search success. 

The platform’s practical and thorough approach is often credited with helping people secure offers from top tech companies.

6. Money-Back Guarantee on Negotiation Coaching: If you opt for the negotiation coaching package, there’s a money-back guarantee if the coaching does not help increase your job offer.

This demonstrates confidence in the quality and effectiveness of their coaching services.

Cons of Using TryExponent

1. Cost: One of the main drawbacks of TryExponent is the cost of its services. 

While the quality of coaching is high, the price tag can be a barrier for those early in their careers or those who are not yet employed in high-paying tech roles.

2. Limited Free Resources: While TryExponent offers a range of valuable services, much of the most beneficial content is locked behind paywalls. 

In case you’re looking for comprehensive free resources, the platform may feel limited without a paid subscription or package.

3. Dependence on Coach Availability: Although Exponent provides flexible scheduling, the availability of specific coaches can be a downside, especially if you’re seeking expertise from a particular coach who may have limited slots or is in high demand.

4. Variable Quality Across Coaches: While TryExponent strives to maintain high standards for its coaches, the experience can vary depending on the individual coach you work with. 

This inconsistency can affect the quality of the feedback and guidance received.

5. Focus on Tech Roles: Exponent is heavily focused on tech industry roles, particularly in product management, engineering, and data science. 

This specialization means that those looking for interview preparation outside of these fields may find the content less applicable or comprehensive.

6. No Membership Inclusion with Coaching Purchases: Coaching sessions do not include a membership to Exponent, meaning access to certain features or additional resources may require separate purchases, which can add to the overall cost.

In short, while TryExponent provides valuable tools and expert coaching that can significantly enhance your interview preparation and career progression, you should weigh the costs and commitment required to make the most of its offerings.

Comparison with Other Interview Preparation Platforms

When comparing TryExponent to other popular interview preparation platforms like Tech Interview Pro, LeetCode, and PMExercises, a few key distinctions emerge. 

Tech Interview Pro focuses primarily on algorithm and coding interview questions. 

It offers a structured approach to learning algorithms with step-by-step problem-solving strategies.

This can be ideal if you need in-depth explanations of complex coding problems.

However, it lacks the personalized coaching and real-world interview simulations that TryExponent offers.

LeetCode is widely recognized for its extensive repository of coding challenges and contests.

It’s particularly strong in helping you practice algorithm-based questions that are common in technical interviews, especially for software engineering roles.

While LeetCode provides a vast collection of problems and a community-driven discussion forum, it does not offer personalized coaching or career-focused guidance like TryExponent.

PMExercises targets aspiring product managers, providing resources for  product management interviews, such as case studies and product design questions. 

While PMExercises offers valuable content for PM interviews, its scope is narrower and lacks the cross-functional coaching available on TryExponent, which covers roles from engineering to design and beyond.

Unique Selling Points

TryExponent stands out in the crowded interview preparation space through its unique combination of personalized coaching.

1. Expert Coaching and Personalized Feedback: One of TryExponent’s strongest differentiators is its access to seasoned professionals who provide one-on-one coaching for your needs. 

2. Holistic Career Guidance: Unlike platforms that focus solely on technical skills or specific interview types, TryExponent covers a broad range of interview scenarios, including behavioral questions, negotiation tactics, and overall job search strategies. 

This all-encompassing support will equip you with the tools you need to excel in every aspect of your interview process.

3. Flexibility and Accessibility: TryExponent offers flexible scheduling across multiple time zones, making it accessible to users worldwide. 

This global reach and the ability to book sessions that fit individual schedules set TryExponent apart from more rigid or region-specific platforms.

4. Real-World Insights and Application: Exponent coaches bring in-depth and real-world experience from top tech companies. 

This practical knowledge is beyond textbook and helps you understand what top companies truly look for in candidates, providing an edge that more generic platforms may not offer.

5. Comprehensive Learning Resources: TryExponent’s resources extend beyond coding problems to include extensive materials on product management, data science, design, and more. 

6. Structured Packages with Money-Back Guarantees: Particularly in negotiation coaching, TryExponent’s unique offers a money-back guarantee if their services do not result in a better job offer.

This is a promise not commonly found on other platforms.

Who is TryExponent Best Suited For?

TryExponent is an excellent choice for aspiring or current product managers, software engineers, and data scientists who are preparing for interviews at top tech companies. 

Its targeted approach, combining expert coaching, makes it particularly valuable if you’re seeking roles at companies like Google, Amazon, Meta, and other leading tech firms. 

Aspiring Product Managers: TryExponent provides deep dives into case studies, product design, and strategy questions, making it ideal for candidates targeting PM roles.

Software Engineers and Data Scientists: There’s mock interviews, coding challenges, and feedback sessions led by experienced engineers who have successfully navigated the hiring processes at top-tier companies.

Structured, Expert-Led Prep Seekers: The platform’s coaches help refine skills, improve interview techniques, and provide insights that align closely with the expectations of tech recruiters.

WHO MIGHT WANT TO LOOK ELSEWHERE?

Individuals Seeking Broader Subject Matter or Non-Tech Roles: While TryExponent excels in tech-specific roles, those looking for preparation in non-tech fields, such as finance, marketing, or humanities, may find the platform’s resources too niche. 

The platform’s primary focus on tech roles may not provide the breadth of content needed for broader or non-tech job preparations.

Cost-Conscious Users or Those Preferring Self-Directed Learning: TryExponent’s premium coaching and personalized services come at a higher cost compared to self-directed platforms like LeetCode or free resources available online. 

Users who prefer a more budget-friendly or self-paced learning approach might find TryExponent’s offerings less suitable. 

If the need is purely for practice problems without the guidance of a coach, alternatives like Interview Cake or free coding challenge sites might be more appropriate.

Final Verdict

TryExponent excels in providing expert-led interview preparation for tech roles, particularly in product management, software engineering, and data science. 

It offers personalized coaching, mock interviews, and targeted feedback that align well with real-world interview needs. 

However, its higher cost and tech-focused content might not suit those looking for broader subject matter or more affordable options.

Overall Recommendation

TryExponent is highly recommended for tech professionals targeting roles at top companies who value structured, expert-led preparation. 

For those outside tech or on a tighter budget, exploring alternative platforms with broader or more self-directed options might be more suitable.