Software engineers after graduating have two options to choose from – getting into a service-based company or getting into a product-based company. While both places are great for showcasing your capabilities as an engineer, product-based companies are better suited if you are looking for better pay and a better work-life balance.
Not only this, several incentives are provided in product-based companies in addition to your regular pay scale which makes it even more interesting to get up and go to work each day.
It is said that when you are not loving the job you are doing, there is no point in continuing. While the job profile plays a major role in making an employee interested in his role, the role of the work environment can also not be ignored.
There are times when a software engineer can decide that he wants to advance more in his career and hence he wishes to move on from his role at a service-based company to get a role at a product-based company.
This article offers a comprehensive guide about how one can make a smooth transition and get all the answers one needs to a crucial question – how to switch from a service-based company to a product-based company.
A service-based company is an organization that primarily offers services to its clients or customers rather than tangible products. These services can range from consulting and outsourcing to software development, marketing, financial advisory, and more. In a service-based model, the company's revenue is generated through the provision of expertise, labor, or specialized skills to fulfill specific client needs or requirements. Service-based companies typically engage in contracts or agreements with clients, providing tailored solutions, expertise, and support to address their business challenges or objectives.
What is a Product-Based Company?
A product-based company, on the other hand, is an organization that develops, manufactures, and sells tangible products to consumers or businesses. These products can include physical goods such as electronics, appliances, automobiles, clothing, and more, as well as digital products such as software applications, mobile apps, and online platforms. In a product-based model, the company's revenue is generated through the sale of its products to customers, either directly or through distribution channels.
Difference Between Service-Based Company and Product-Based Company
Parameter
Service-Based Company
Product-Based Company
Nature of Offering
Offers intangible services
Offers tangible products
Revenue Source
Generated from service fees
Generated from product sales
Focus of Operations
Delivery of customized solutions and expertise
Design, manufacture, and sale of products
Delivery Mechanism
Through contracts, agreements, or consultations
Through distribution channels or online platforms
Value Proposition
Specialized skills and expertise tailored to clients
The first stage of the process is the resume shortlisting process. Every time a company puts a new opportunity on its careers page, thousands of applicants apply at once to get a chance to work with the company. Resume shortlisting is the stage where most of the applicants are rejected. These rejections can happen due to several reasons which include but are not limited to – resume not being in alignment with the job description, less experience in the field, common resume errors, and so on. You need to ensure you are creating a professional-grade resume that can impress the recruiters.
The second stage of the interview is an exploratory call where the interviewer assesses your dedication to work for the company and the reason that drives you to do the same. For this round, you need to be well researched about the company and the role you are applying for. Good research shows interest and will definitely make your application go forward.
The third stage of the interview is a coding round. The format of this coding round varies from company to company. Some companies prefer taking a machine coding round, some prefer taking around which involves low-level system design whereas some companies provide take-home assignments to the candidates.
The fourth stage of the interview is a problem-solving round. This interview is a test of your data structures and algorithms skills and knowledge. Product-based companies prefer individuals with good reasoning and algorithmic skills.
The final stage of the interview is an HR round. The interview is a test of both your technical and non-technical skills. The projects that you have mentioned on your resume play a huge role in your selection. This round might also cover puzzles,data structures and algorithms, structured query language, object-oriented programming, and computer fundamentals.
Now that you are aware of what you have to prepare for, let’s have a look at how you have to prepare. This is an important section for the topic – how to switch from a service-based company to a product-based company.
Coding Skills. To enhance your coding skills, you need to select one language (C++ / Java preferable) and ensure you are grasping the fundamentals of the language properly and understand data structures and algorithms in that particular language. You can take up Coding Ninjas’ course –C++ with Data Structures and AlgorithmsorJava Foundation With Data Structures and Algorithms.
Resume and LinkedIn. You need to make sure you are following the rules to make a good resume and your LinkedIn profile is optimized for the role you are applying for.
Practice Data Structures and Algorithms. You can practice data structures and algorithms on platforms like Leetcode or go with Coding Ninjas’ Guided Paths for –data structures and algorithmsandinterview preparation.
Computer Fundamentals. Database management systems, operating systems, object-oriented programming, and computer networks are crucial for your interview. You can go for books – Navathe and Korth for DBMS, Galvin for OS, Balaguruswamy for OOPS, and Tanenbaum for Computer Networks or you can take help from different YouTube channels such as Gate Smashers and Knowledge Gate. Coding Ninjas has also curated an operating systems-guided trackwhich you should definitely check out.
Machine Coding and SQL. You can learn system design throughCoding Ninjas’ guided path. For learning SQL, you can refer to any resource online.
How to Prepare for Product-Based Company Interviews?
Preparing for interviews with product-based companies requires a strategic approach to showcase your skills, knowledge, and suitability for the role. Here are some key steps to help you prepare effectively:
Resume Preparation
Craft a tailored resume highlighting your relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments. Emphasize any projects, internships, or certifications that demonstrate your expertise in areas relevant to the company and role you're applying for. Customize your resume for each application to align with the specific requirements and preferences of the product-based company.
Interview Process
Research the interview process of the product-based company you're applying to understand what to expect. This may include technical assessments, coding challenges, behavioral interviews, and possibly onsite interviews. Familiarize yourself with the company's culture, values, and products to demonstrate your interest and enthusiasm during the interview process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I shift from service-based to product-based?
To transition from a service-based company to a product based company, you need to upskill your coding, development and aptitude skills. For a comprehensive guide, refer to the article above.
Who earns more product-based or service-based?
Product-based companies often offer higher salaries due to their focus on innovation and revenue from product sales.
Is service-based better than product-based?
It depends on individual preferences and career goals. Service-based companies may provide stability and diverse opportunities, while product-based companies offer innovation and higher earning potential.
What should I learn to get placed into a product based company from a service-based company?
You need to be well versed with computer fundamentals, data structures and algorithms, system design and SQL.
Which is better – a product based company or a service-based company?
A product based company is better in terms of pay and work-life balance.
Which are the top service-based companies in India?
Wipro, Tata Consultancy Services,HCL Technologiesare among the top service-based companies in India.
Conclusion
To make your transition from a service-based company to a product-based company certain, you need to give everything you got. Take regular mock interviews, participate in peer learning and keep on applying until you get hired.
Most importantly, enjoy the process and take pride in being a developer. It is extremely fun to understand the computer fundamentals and data structures and algorithms once you start getting the hang of it.
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