I was recently asked about my transition from a software developer to a product manager and whether it was worthwhile. If the question is, ‘Should I become a PM?’ the short answer is, ‘Don’t!’
Since becoming a product manager, I’ve been laid off, perhaps first or second, along with QAs and recruiters. It’s challenging to prove that product managers are crucial for business success.
We are often viewed as babysitters, secretaries, blame players, and serial complainers. No tangible business value or hands-on work is attributed to a product manager!
Despite my differing opinion, it doesn’t matter; my colleagues and I are always on the frontline during layoffs.
The main issue is that product teams are typically too layered, with numerous ‘product somethings’ around, many of whom are essentially people managers (as I discussed in my previous posts).
Another challenge is quantifying a product manager’s work. How do you measure what was produced or the business value brought to the company? While results can be shown, it’s not easily understandable to those deciding who is essential for the company’s survival.
The most significant reason is that product managers are middlemen. Without developers or those ultimately responsible for product development, we are powerless.
Consider being the CEO of a pizzeria restaurant chain; who would you need the most? Pizza makers, waiters, and delivery guys may seem more critical to someone focused solely on profits. However, who ensures enough staff during peak hours, updates the menu, or communicates that a pizzeria can’t make sushi, even if it’s a TikTok trend? You get my point.
To conclude, there was a time when developers were passive players. With Scrum and a more creative environment for developers, moving to product just for the spotlight isn’t worth it. The risks and cons outweigh the transition’s benefits.
While there are product-oriented companies that value PMs, unfortunately, they are rare. You might be lucky to find one. Personally, I had the chance to work in one of them – just one out of ten.
