What are careers in product management?

Product Manager

A product manager is a mid-level role. While product managers don't necessarily have to have a direct product management background, they should have professional experience and demonstrable skills in communication, leadership, and strategy. Product managers are responsible for the strategy, roadmap, and features of a product.

The product manager will be the "go-to" person for other teams regarding the product. You will be consulted for advice on the process, relationships, and development of the product, and you will need to be well informed about all stages and data at all times.

You will need to be able to work with cross-functional teams, including UX, engineering, and marketing, to conduct accurate data analysis, forecasting, and market research. The role is both strategic and tactical and requires strong leadership, collaboration, and product knowledge.

Product manager responsibilities can include:

• Developing innovative, industry-leading features and products

• Identifying opportunities and scoping them

• Driving strategies, tactics, and delivery timelines

• Inspiring cross-functional teammates and building strong relationships

• Delivering excellent products and services

• Influencing key stakeholders and ensuring resources and priorities align

Senior Product Manager

A senior product manager shares similar responsibilities as the product manager but on a higher level. People in these roles typically have a solid background in product management, and they will be used to manage higher-value products. They may also act as the liaison between the leadership team and the product management teams.

At this level, you are expected to be able to think on your feet and be fully accountable for your product teams. You are also expected to make data-driven decisions that are based on complex and interdependent factors. This requires deep knowledge and understanding of the products and the market.

You should also have mastery over the three product management communication streams:

1. Horizontal communication streams: This communication stream is the one that product managers will typically use the most. Product managers will spend most of their time communicating across the organization with cross-functional team members.

   Horizontal streams refer to communications with fellow team members and other internal teams. These communications are usually regarding implementation and execution. Team members need to know what to do and why they need to do it.

2. Vertical communication streams: This communication stream is due to the nuances of being a product manager. In most organizations, a product manager is not an executive and, therefore, will need to communicate information up to the senior leadership level.

   Similarly, a product manager will have an elevated role compared with many others in the organization. This means that you will have to communicate information to your other teammates and coworkers.

   With this type of communication, it is important to provide the information in the most efficient way possible. In most cases, the executive team is primarily concerned with the aspects directly impacting their own goals and responsibilities. Drill down into what matters and offer it up in the simplest terms.

3. External communication streams: This communication stream refers to the occasions where you will have to communicate with parties outside of the company. This could be interactions with the customers, potential users, or business partners.

   It is important to note that the information that is shared outside of the company needs to be thought through very carefully. Outside parties don't care about why things are built or how things are getting done. Their interest is in the status updates and when they can expect their deliverables.

   Avoid providing too many details or providing information that is too specific. This can be especially problematic if the product runs into delays or issues.