One of Linkedin's main revenue drivers is the Recruiter solution where recruiters can send InMail and reach out to Linkedin users. Linkedin is thinking about launching a downgraded version of this product for India where recruiters can only find/touch base with Linkedin users who are based in India. How would you build this new product?

Thank you for providing such a comprehensive framework for addressing this product strategy question. I'll structure my response according to your guidelines, focusing on the specific question about LinkedIn's downgraded Recruiter solution for India. I'll present my answer as if I'm directly addressing the interviewer, using a first-person perspective and demonstrating deep product thinking and leadership.

Introduction

The strategic challenge at hand is to develop a downgraded version of LinkedIn's Recruiter solution specifically for the Indian market, allowing recruiters to find and contact only LinkedIn users based in India. This initiative aligns with LinkedIn's goals of market expansion and localization while potentially opening up new revenue streams in a high-growth market.

In addressing this challenge, I'll outline a comprehensive strategy that covers market analysis, product vision, roadmap development, prioritization, execution planning, metrics definition, and risk management. My approach will ensure we create a product that meets the unique needs of the Indian market while maintaining alignment with LinkedIn's overall business objectives.

Step 1

Clarify the Strategic Goals (3-4 minutes)

Before diving into the solution, I'd like to clarify a few key points to ensure our strategy aligns with LinkedIn's broader objectives:

• Based on LinkedIn's global presence, I'm assuming this initiative is part of a larger strategy to penetrate emerging markets. Could you confirm if this is a standalone project or part of a broader emerging market strategy?

Why it matters: Determines the scope and potential for similar products in other markets Expected answer: Part of a broader emerging market strategy Impact on approach: Would consider scalability and replicability for other markets

• Given the unique characteristics of the Indian job market, I'm curious about the primary driver behind this initiative. Is it more about increasing market share, boosting revenue, or perhaps improving user engagement in the region?

Why it matters: Helps prioritize features and go-to-market strategy Expected answer: Primarily focused on increasing market share and user engagement Impact on approach: Would emphasize user acquisition and engagement features over immediate monetization

• Considering the "downgraded" nature of the product, I'm wondering about the target price point relative to the full Recruiter solution. Are we aiming for a specific percentage of the full price, or is pricing flexibility a key consideration?

Why it matters: Influences feature selection and positioning strategy Expected answer: Aiming for approximately 40-50% of the full Recruiter solution price Impact on approach: Would focus on delivering core value while optimizing costs

Based on these assumptions, our strategy will focus on creating a tailored, cost-effective solution that drives user engagement and market share in India, with the potential to expand to other emerging markets in the future.