In a recent webinar, Tori Funkhouser, a Senior Product Manager at Twitter, shared her insights on how to become a successful product manager. With her extensive experience in the field, she provided a practical roadmap for aspiring product managers, emphasizing the importance of creativity, problem-solving, and continuous learning.
Key Takeaways
- Understand the role of a product manager.
- Start creating and solving problems.
- Build expertise in your chosen field.
- Network and find a mentor.
- Practice interviewing and storytelling.
What Is A Product Manager?
A product manager is often referred to as the CEO of the product. But what does that really mean? Essentially, product managers are responsible for building solutions to real-world problems and delighting customers. They define success, set parameters, and work within real-world constraints to bring their ideas to life.
Tori’s Journey
Tori shared her personal journey into product management, which began with an English degree and a desire to be a writer. After navigating the challenges of the 2008 recession, she found herself in a technical writing role at a startup. It was here that she realized her passion for product management, leading her to pursue a career in this field.
Steps To Break Into Product Management
- Get Started Somewhere: Just dive in. Whether it’s starting a website or creating a product, the key is to take action.
- Create Something From Scratch: Engage in creative projects, whether they are community initiatives or personal endeavors. This experience will be invaluable.
Finding Your Path
- Identify Problems: Look for issues that you are passionate about solving. This could be anything from a minor annoyance to a significant injustice.
- Synthesize Information: Read widely, discuss ideas with others, and develop your perspective. This will help you stand out in interviews.
Building Expertise
Becoming an expert in a specific area can significantly boost your chances of landing a product management role. Whether it’s through gaming, technology, or another field, immerse yourself in what you love.
Paths to Becoming a Product Manager
There are several common paths to becoming a product manager:
- Start at a Startup: Join a startup in a role that interests you and work your way up.
- Entrepreneurship: Many product managers start as founders of their own companies.
- Technical Background: Engineers often transition into product management by improving specs and processes.
- Entry-Level Roles: Some people enter directly from MBA programs, though this can be more challenging.
Up-Leveling Your Skills
Once you’re in a product management role, consider trying different types of PM roles to find your niche. This could include:
- Growth PM: Focus on increasing metrics and improving user engagement.
- Platform PM: Work on building the underlying systems that support other products.
- 0 to 1 PM: Start new products from scratch.
Networking and Mentorship
Finding a community and a mentor can be incredibly beneficial. Attend meetups, join online forums, and seek out mentors who can guide you through your career.
Continuous Learning
Stay sharp by continuously learning and improving your skills. This could involve taking online courses, reading industry blogs, or practicing technical skills.
Practice Interviewing
Interviewing can be daunting, but practice is essential. Use resources like interview prep books and online communities to hone your skills.
Storytelling
Finally, learn how to tell your story. Your unique experiences and perspectives are what make you stand out. Practice articulating your journey and what makes you a great fit for a product management role.
In summary, becoming a product manager is a journey filled with creativity, problem-solving, and continuous learning. By following these steps and embracing your unique path, you can carve out a successful career in product management.