How to Become a Next-Level Product Manager
Traits that define a next-level Product Manager.
In today’s competitive job market, shaped by the recent waves of layoffs and downsizing, setting yourself apart is more important than ever. With over a decade of experience in product management recruitment, we’ve met our fair share of Product Managers. Over time, we’ve honed our ability to differentiate a good PM from a truly exceptional one.
Now, let’s dive into what sets these next-level Product Managers apart and get the insights you need to unlock your potential and secure that dream job.
1. Curate Your Words
The first thing that sets a next-level Product Manager apart is their ability to curate their words. They’ve mastered the art of saying a lot with as few words as possible. In a world inundated with information, this skill is essential. So, when you’re talking to potential employers, keep it concise, engaging, and to the point.
2. Talk in Use Cases and Value
Even if next-level PMs are dealing with the most complex tech products, they’re still able to speak in terms of use cases and value. It’s not about impressing people with tech jargon; it’s about showcasing how the product will benefit users. Make it relatable, and you’ll capture their attention.
3. Ask Smart Questions
As you progress through the interview process, tailor your questions to suit the stage and the person you’re speaking with. Asking smart questions is a way to showcase your understanding of the product and its users.
When you’re talking with the CPO, for example, you can ask about the product roadmap. Talk about the product strategy and how your role contributes to its execution. Seek tangible ways in which you can contribute to the product’s success.
When you meet with the CEO, it’s a great opportunity to delve into the company’s vision, mission, and strategic goals. You can also ask about the company’s direction and its exit strategy. If you have finance concerns, such as burn rate or run rate, especially when considering a seed company, the CEO is the ideal person to ask.
Save questions about vacation, company culture, perks, and benefits to the Talent Acquisition Leader or the Head of People. Bringing up these topics to a CPO might make it seem like you’re not that interested in the product and could make you look disengaged. Asking the right questions to the right people shows your keen interest in the product and the organization, which can greatly improve your interview success.
4. Win People Over
Becoming a next-level Product Manager goes beyond managing products; it involves managing people well. It’s about establishing connections, leaving a positive mark in every interaction, and fostering strong relationships.
When you’re seen as professional, diligent, and well-liked, people naturally enjoy collaborating with you and/or working for you. As a PM, you generally work with different departments, serving as a bridge between marketing, sales, engineering, and customer success teams. Without building positive relationships and earning the trust of your colleagues, it can be challenging to excel in your role. In product management, being well-liked and having strong relationships with your team members isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a necessity for success.
5. Take Discovery Calls
Be open to having a dialogue with a Recruiter — this is where you discover the ‘why’ behind an opportunity and the story of the Founders. A great opportunity is more than just checking off boxes on a job description; it’s about really getting to know the company you could be working for.
6. Experience Standing Up A 0–1 Product
Next-level Product Managers have been through it all. They’ve stood up 0–1 product businesses, even when it didn’t achieve commercial success. This journey involves learning the ropes and mastering the fundamentals that demonstrate your tenacity and determination, making you stand out.
7. Learning and Growing from Failures
Next-level Product Managers embrace failure as a stepping stone to success. They don’t view failures as dead ends but rather as learning opportunities. Most ideas, startups, and ventures face setbacks at some point, but it’s your perspective that truly matters. Rather than dwelling on a “failure,” see it as a learning experience and have talk tracks around it.
Demonstrate your ability to learn from failures and how you’ve applied those learnings in practical ways. For example, if a missing feature hindered a successful product launch, share how you doubled down, learned how to implement this feature, understood its value for the use case, and then nailed its implementation in the next iteration.
8. Know When to Stay Put
Sometimes, it’s all about staying put. Next-level PMs know when it’s best to stick with what they’ve got. For example, when you’re in the middle of launching a product. Once it’s out there, you’ll have valuable metrics and achievements to add to your resume. At this point, it’s wise to stay focused on this project because it’s driving your career forward. Not only are you building a strong resume, but you’re also gaining substantial knowledge and experience. Why consider changing jobs at this stage?
Know when to stay committed. If you’re in the middle of something with substantial career benefits and promising outcomes, maintain your focus. Don’t get tempted by a higher salary elsewhere. By completing your current project and gaining the learning experiences it offers, you’ll be better prepared to tackle more substantial challenges in the future. Stay put, complete your current mandate, and carry the valuable lessons to your next role, where you can achieve even greater success
9. Little to No Concern Over Titles
Don’t let a job title define you. It’s not about the fancy designation; it’s about the impact you make. Focus on the substance of your work.
10. Money is Never #1
Sure, we all need to pay the bills, but being a next-level Product Manager isn’t solely about the paycheck. It’s about your passion for the work and your commitment to making a difference.
As you work your way up to becoming a next-level Product Manager, remember that it’s not just about the job; it’s about the career you build. We hope you found these tips helpful, now it’s time to go out there, use these insights, and show the world what you’re made of!
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