Tips for Transitioning into Product Management
Look if I can do it, you definitely can.
I’ve been asked often how to transition into a Product Manager (PM) role from other positions. The path to PM is rarely linear, and every journey is unique. Here’s what worked for me—a pragmatic guide to making the leap. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, but it reflects the principles that have driven my success in this role.
Find a Mentor
Good mentors are like compasses—they help guide your path while keeping you grounded. Seek someone who genuinely believes in you and has the patience to invest in your growth. A mentor’s insights, feedback, and advocacy can make all the difference.
Develop PM Skills
Product management is a craft, and it requires specific tools. Start honing core skills like roadmapping, stakeholder communication, and cross-functional collaboration. These aren’t just bullet points on a resume; they’re the backbone of effective PM work.
Think Like a PM
Begin by approaching every project as if you’re the PM. Visualize the entire journey—anticipate obstacles, think critically, and stay curious about potential solutions. The more you practice, the more natural this mindset will become.
Build a Strong Foundation
Having a background in development, technical work, or design is not mandatory but can be incredibly valuable. Personally, I’ve found that improving my design and UX skills has been a game-changer. These strengths often differentiate good PMs from great ones.
Master Decision-Making
The ability to make clear, confident decisions is crucial. People tend to avoid decision-making, but PMs don’t have that luxury. Practice saying "yes" and "no" with conviction—and learn how to back up your choices with strong reasoning.
Leverage Resources
Lenny’s Newsletter: This resource offers invaluable insights into the mindset and methodologies of successful PMs.
Reforge Courses: If you’re looking for structured learning, I can’t recommend these courses enough. They’re packed with actionable insights that immediately level up your PM skills.
Embrace Ownership
Owning your domain means becoming the go-to person for your product. It’s about identifying stakeholders, keeping them informed, and building their trust. True ownership isn’t given—it’s earned through consistent effort and accountability.
Define Your PM Identity
PM roles come in all shapes and sizes. Are you drawn to marketing, development, design, hardware, or software? Clarifying your interests helps you target roles that align with your passions and strengths.
Become an Expert
A great PM knows their product inside and out. Use it daily, analyze how users interact with it, and immerse yourself in its ecosystem. My progression—from SEO Manager to Growth PM—was fueled by my obsession with understanding user behavior.
Create Opportunities
When the Head of Growth at my company mentioned hiring a PM, I expressed interest. That one conversation led to months of mentorship, resources, and eventually, the role itself. If you’re passionate about a position, don’t wait—manifest it by showing your dedication and drive.
Think Like a CEO
My boss often says, "Own your product like you’re the CEO and your boss is the board." This perspective has reshaped how I approach my work, emphasizing accountability and vision.
Network Thoughtfully
Talking to PMs at companies you admire is a game-changer. Most PMs are generous with their time and insights. If you can, go in with a warm referral—it adds credibility and opens doors that cold applications often can’t.
Becoming a PM is a journey, not a sprint. These steps helped me, and I hope they provide a roadmap for you too. If you’ve tried any of these or have your own tips to share, let’s start a conversation—I’d love to hear your story.