Because I teach a course on product management at Harvard Business School, I am routinely asked, “What is the role of a product manager?” The role of product manager (PM) is often referred to as the “CEO of the product.” I disagree because, as Martin Eriksson points out, “Product managers simply don’t have any direct authority over most of the things needed to make their products successful — from user and data research through design and development to marketing, sales, and support.” PMs are not the CEO of product, and their roles vary widely depending on a number of factors. So, what should you consider if you’re thinking of pursuing a PM role?
What It Takes to Become a Great Product Manager
And how to pick between jobs.
December 13, 2017
· Long read
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Summary.
For an aspiring product manager (PM), there are three primary considerations when evaluating the role: core competencies, emotional intelligence (EQ), and company fit. The best PMs have mastered the core competencies, have a high EQ, and work for the right company for them. The last requires thinking about the level of technical skill the company requires, its philosophy of the PM role, the stage of the company, and the relationship you’ll have with senior management.