Are you looking to pursue a career as a product manager in 2023, but unsure of where to begin?
If so, you’re in the right place.
This comprehensive guide will provide all the necessary information to start a career in product management, even if you lack prior experience. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap to launch your product management career.
Also check out my ultimate guides on becoming a graphic designer, software developer, social media manager and web designer.
Let’s dive right in!
Why Pursue A Career As A Product Manager In 2023?
Becoming a Product Manager presents numerous opportunities and benefits in 2023. The demand for Product Managers is rising across industries, ensuring job security and growth. As a Product Manager, you play a vital role in product success by shaping the vision, conducting market research, and managing the entire product lifecycle.
This multidisciplinary role allows you to collaborate with diverse teams and develop valuable skills in business, technology, and UX design. Starting as an Associate Product Manager (APM) provides a solid foundation for learning and growth within the field. Pursuing a career as a Product Manager offers a promising future.
What Is Product Management?
Product management is a customer-centric organizational function that oversees the entire lifecycle of a product, prioritizing customer needs and market insights. By advocating for customers and leveraging market feedback, product managers drive the development and delivery of well-designed and high-performing products. In the rapidly evolving tech industry, product management plays a vital role in understanding customers and creating tailored solutions to stay ahead of the competition.
What Does A Product Manager Do?
A product manager is responsible for defining the strategy, features, and success of a product. They motivate cross-functional teams and ensure the product meets user needs. They analyze user needs, monitor the market, define the product’s vision, coordinate with stakeholders, gather feedback, and guide teams throughout the product lifecycle.
Product Manager: Roles & Responsibilities
Here are the key roles and responsibilities typically associated with product management:
Identifying customer needs and business objectives
The product manager identifies the customer needs and aligns them with the larger business objectives that the product or feature aims to fulfill.
Defining product vision and success
They articulate what success looks like for the product and develop a clear vision that aligns with the customer needs and business objectives. The product manager sets goals, defines success metrics, and ensures that the team understands and works towards achieving them.
Cross-functional collaboration
Product managers collaborate with various stakeholders, including designers, engineers, marketers, and analysts. They work with these teams to gather input, align stakeholders behind a specific vision, and ensure effective execution of product development and delivery.
Product strategy and Roadmapping
Product managers develop and communicate the product strategy, which includes defining the product roadmap and prioritizing features based on customer needs, market trends, and business goals. They make strategic decisions regarding the product’s direction and ensure it aligns with the overall business strategy.
Market research and analysis
Product managers conduct market research to understand customer needs, market trends, and industry changes. They gather data, analyze customer feedback and analytics, and use insights to inform product development decisions.
Product development and launch
Product managers oversee the product’s design, development, and launch. They collaborate with cross-functional teams to define product requirements, create prototypes, conduct testing, and ensure timely and successful product releases.
Product performance monitoring
Product managers continuously monitor the performance of the product using metrics, customer feedback, and market trends. They assess the product’s success, identify areas for improvement, and make data-driven decisions to enhance the product’s value.
Stakeholder communication
Product managers act as a bridge between the development team and other stakeholders, including executives, customers, and partners. They communicate updates, progress, and key decisions related to the product, ensuring effective collaboration and alignment.
Competitive analysis
Product managers keep track of competitors and conduct competitive analysis. They identify the strengths and weaknesses of competing products, assess market trends, and use this information to make strategic decisions and differentiate their product in the market.
User experience (UX) Advocacy
Product managers advocate for a user-centered approach and ensure the product provides a positive and intuitive user experience. They work closely with UX designers and researchers to understand user needs, conduct usability testing, and iterate on the product’s design and functionality.
Product Manager: Skills & Qualifications
To be a successful product manager, there are several key skills and qualifications that employers typically look for. Here is a comprehensive list of the skills and qualifications commonly associated with product management:
Technical Expertise
While product managers don’t need to be proficient in coding, they should have a good understanding of the technical aspects of the product development process and be able to effectively collaborate with technical teams. This includes knowledge of software development methodologies, technology trends, and the ability to translate technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders.
Understanding of User Experience (UX) Skills
Product managers should have a solid grasp of UX principles and be able to advocate for the user’s needs and preferences. They should be able to work closely with designers and UX researchers to ensure that the product meets user expectations and delivers a positive user experience.
Business Savvy Skills
Product managers play a strategic role in driving the success of a product. They need to have a strong understanding of the business landscape, market trends, competition, and customer needs. This includes skills in market analysis, business modeling, and pricing strategies.
Critical Thinking Skills
Product managers must possess strong critical thinking skills to assess complex situations, solve problems, and make informed decisions. They need to analyze data, evaluate risks, and consider multiple perspectives to guide product development and strategy.
Analytical and Research Skills
Product managers should be comfortable working with data and conducting market research. They need to gather and analyze relevant data to inform product decisions, identify market opportunities, and track key performance indicators (KPIs). This involves using tools for data analysis, conducting user research, and staying up-to-date with industry trends.
Problem-Solving Skills
Product managers encounter various challenges throughout the product lifecycle. They should be adept at identifying problems, finding creative solutions, and making sound recommendations. This requires a combination of analytical thinking, collaboration, and resourcefulness.
Prioritization Skills
Product managers are often faced with competing demands and limited resources. They need to have strong prioritization skills to focus on high-impact tasks, allocate resources effectively, and manage timelines. This involves understanding the product vision and goals, as well as aligning priorities with business objectives.
Strategic Thinking Skills
Product managers should possess strategic thinking skills to develop a clear vision for the product and create a roadmap to achieve it. They need to consider long-term goals, market trends, and customer needs to drive innovation and business growth.
Communication Skills
Effective communication is crucial for product managers to collaborate with cross-functional teams, stakeholders, and customers. They should be able to articulate ideas, present strategies, and facilitate productive discussions. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for conveying information clearly and building strong relationships.
Storytelling Skills
Product managers should be able to craft compelling narratives about the product to generate excitement and support from stakeholders. Storytelling skills help in creating a shared understanding of the product’s value proposition, target audience, and competitive advantage.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Product Manager?
Becoming a Product Management can take 6 to 12 months, with the duration varying based on your background. Business professionals should focus on learning Design and Tech, while those from a Tech background should learn Business and Design. Practice creating, launching, and iterating products in the market to gain experience.
Here is what you need to do in the next 6 to 12 months:
- Months 1–2: Understand the role in more detail
- Months 3- 4: Learn the Product Manager mindset
- Months 5–6: Get formal training
- Months 6–12: Build your Product Managing brand before applying for jobs
How Much Does a Product Manager Make?
Product management offers high job satisfaction and competitive salaries. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and skills, with an average annual range of $61,000 to $200,000.
Where do product managers come from?
Product managers come from diverse backgrounds, as the role requires a range of skills. There is no fixed career path for product management, as it’s about leveraging existing skills and learning new ones.
Roles in sales, customer service, retail, UX, marketing, engineering, and project management can provide a foundation for product management. Soft skills like user-centric thinking, business acumen, strategic thinking, and project management are valuable.
Successful product managers bring a unique mix of skills, and there is no specific field or discipline necessary for success in the role.
Where Do Product Managers Work?
Product managers work in various industries and organizations, playing a crucial role in developing and managing products throughout their lifecycle. Here are some common places where product managers work:
Technology Companies
Many product managers can be found in technology companies, ranging from startups to established tech giants. These companies often develop software, hardware, or digital products, and product managers are responsible for driving product strategy, defining features, and overseeing the development process.
E-commerce and Online Marketplaces
With the growth of e-commerce, product managers are in demand in companies that operate online marketplaces or retail platforms. They work on enhancing user experiences, optimizing product listings, and managing the overall product catalog.
Consumer Goods and Retail
Product managers are essential in consumer goods and retail companies, where they focus on developing and managing physical products. This can include industries such as apparel, electronics, home goods, and more.
Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Companies
Product managers play a role in healthcare and pharmaceutical organizations, working on products such as medical devices, healthcare software, pharmaceuticals, and digital health solutions. They navigate the complex regulatory landscape and address the unique challenges of the healthcare industry.
Consulting Firms
Product management roles also exist within consulting firms, where product managers offer their expertise to clients across different industries. They provide strategic guidance, conduct market research, and help clients optimize their product strategies.
Step By Step Guide To Become Product Manager
This step-by-step guide will provide you with the necessary information and actionable steps to kickstart your product management career.
Step 1: Gain Knowledge and Familiarize With PM
Start by immersing yourself in the world of product management. Read books, articles, and blogs related to the field. Familiarize yourself with industry best practices and the latest trends. Developing a solid foundation of knowledge will provide a strong starting point for your career.
Formal Education
Formal education for product management is available through various programs and courses offered by reputable institutions. Here are a few notable options:
Stanford University provides a comprehensive program that covers the product lifecycle. It offers courses on product requirements, customer discovery, marketing, finance, and team management. Completion of four courses earns a Stanford Certificate of Completion in Program Management. Flexible enrollment options are available.
Singapore Management University offers an online program in product management. It spans three months and covers key topics like product mindset, design thinking, marketing strategies, and more. The program includes video lectures, assignments, live sessions, and a capstone project.
Carnegie Mellon University offers a one-year MSPM program that combines design, technology, and business leadership. The curriculum focuses on customer empathy, team leadership, and delivering business value. Graduates have secured product management roles in top companies across industries.
Become a Self Taught Product Manager via Online Courses
In the digital age, learning has evolved beyond traditional classrooms. Here are the 15 best online project management courses, providing details on their features, cost, and benefits. Whether you’re starting a project management career or seeking skill enhancement, this guide will help you choose the right course for your goals.
Do you need a degree to work in product management?
A degree is not required to become a product manager, a product management certification can be beneficial for learning essential skills and enhancing job prospects. Certification programs offer structured training and can boost confidence and credibility when entering the job market.
Recommended Product Management Courses and Certifications
To enhance your knowledge and credentials in product management, consider enrolling in reputable courses or pursuing certifications. Some popular options include:
- Product Management Certificate Program – Offered by the University of Washington on Coursera.
- Certified Product Manager – Provided by the Association of International Product Marketing and Management.
- Pragmatic Marketing – Offers various product management and marketing certifications.
Step 2: Start Improving your product management skills
Now, focus on developing your product management skills. Assess your current competencies and identify the skills you need to learn. Look for opportunities in your current job to develop these skills, particularly in areas like communication and problem-solving. If possible, shadow or seek guidance from professionals in related roles, such as UX designers or product managers.
Additionally, consider taking a course to formalize your learning. Free online courses are available to help you get started and gain a foundational understanding before pursuing more comprehensive programs.
Here are some free courses to get you started:
- Product Management Basics: University of Maryland on edX (4 weeks, 2-3 hours per week)
- Brand and Product Management: ie Business School on Coursera (approx. 14 hours)
- Introduction to Product Management: By Career Foundry (1 week)
Step 3: Acquire Relevant Experience
Building practical experience is essential for aspiring product managers. Look for opportunities within your current role or organization to contribute to product-related projects. Volunteer for cross-functional teams or take on side projects that allow you to develop and showcase your product management skills.
Gain Project Management Experience by:
- Volunteer for project-like efforts or coordinate non-profit events.
- Consider part-time gigs or freelance opportunities for project management work.
- Volunteer for projects within your current job to meet experience requirements.
- Attend project management training to learn tools and techniques.
- Join professional associations like PMI for resources and networking.
- Find a mentor for guidance and feedback on your project management skills
>>Pro Tip: Volunteer Product Manager Remote Jobs
>>Pro Tip: Find Freelance Product Manager Jobs
Step 4: Network and Connect with Professionals
Networking is a vital aspect of any career, and product management is no exception. Attend industry events, join relevant online communities, and connect with product managers through platforms like LinkedIn. Building a strong network can open doors to mentorship, job opportunities, and valuable insights.
>>Pro Tip: Online Communities Product Managers Should Join
Step 5: Build a Strong Portfolio
Create a portfolio that showcases your product management experience and achievements. Include examples of projects you’ve worked on, highlighting the value you brought to the product’s success. A well-curated portfolio can make a significant impact during job interviews and demonstrate your capabilities effectively.
>>Pro Tip: How to Create a Product Manager Portfolio (Guide)
Step 6: Apply for Product Manager Positions
With a solid foundation of knowledge, relevant experience, refined skills, and a compelling portfolio, start applying for product manager positions. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your product management expertise. Leverage your network and professional connections to discover potential job openings.
How to Find Jobs As a Product Manager?
Top job sites: Product Manager HQ, Mind the Product, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, ProductHired, Women in Product, SimplyHired, Product School.
- Product Manager HQ attracts committed professionals.
- Mind the Product offers thought leadership and a job board.
- LinkedIn provides access to company information and connections.
- Glassdoor offers reviews and salary data for research-loving candidates.
- ProductHired reaches product professionals with tailored alerts.
- Women in Product targets female candidates and promotes workplace equality.
- SimplyHired offers posting on multiple job boards.
- Product School’s job board is suitable for newly certified PMs.
Bonus: best product management courses and certifications
Here are some of the best product management courses and certifications to consider:
General Assembly’s Product Management Course
- Duration: 10 weeks part-time or 1 week intensive
- Cost: $3,950
- Format: Online
- Learn more about the General Assembly product management course
The Product School Product Manager Certification
- Duration: 8 weeks part-time or 5 days full-time
- Cost: $4,499
- Format: Online with live, instructor-led lessons
The Product Management Certification Course by BrainStation
- Duration: The course takes place over 5 Saturdays from 10.30am-5.30pm EDT
- Cost: $2,900
- Format: Online
Learn more about BrainStation’s product management certification
Product Manager Salaries By Country
The average salary for product managers in the United States is $103,671, with an additional average cash bonus of $5,000. This is nearly double the average U.S. salary of $53,490 in 2023.
Product manager salaries vary across different locations in the U.S. Here are the typical earnings for product managers in different locations, listed from highest to lowest, based on data from Indeed.
- San Francisco, CA: $109,154
- New York, NY: $103,756
- Seattle, WA: $100,433
- Los Angeles, CA: $98,212
- Chicago, IL: $97,142
- Denver, CO: $95,163
- Minneapolis, MN: $94,513
- Atlanta, GA: $94,040
- Boston, NY: $93,578
- Dallas, TX: $93,280
Average salaries per job title (in the U.S.)
- Product Manager – 113,446 US$
- Senior Product Manager – 146,585 US$
- Director of Product Management – 179,315 US$
- Vice President of Product – 189,288 US$
- Chief Product Officer – 204,264 US$
Average Product Manager Salaries in Europe
- London – 57,555 GBP £
- Dublin – 63,773 EUR €
- Paris – 48,000 EUR €
- Barcelona – 45,269 EUR €
- Berlin – 57,917 EUR €
- Stockholm – 580,080 SEK kr
- Amsterdam – 67,386 EUR €
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming A Product Manager
What qualifications do I need to be a product manager?
Product managers typically have degrees in technical fields like engineering and computer science, along with an MBA and a product management certification. They can also pursue product management roles in non-technical fields by networking with companies that value their expertise.
Is it hard to become a product manager?
And obviously, a profession this awesome—where you bring products to market that could help thousands or even millions of people—can’t always be easy. Product management (PM) is a challenging career. It’s high stakes. It’s demanding.
Is Product Manager well paid in India?
In India, the average product manager salary is ₹9,40,771 per year (around US$13,000). This is considerably higher than the national average salary of ₹3,87,500 per year (around US$5,000)
Which degree is best for product manager?
A qualified product managers often complete a master’s in business administration (MBA) or a master’s in business management and leadership, both of which can be completed online. Though lengthy, these master’s programs provide necessary education used daily by product managers.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a product manager requires a combination of knowledge, skills, experience, and a proactive approach. The demand for product managers continues to grow, making it an opportune time to pursue a career in this field. Remember to stay committed, embrace continuous learning, and seize every opportunity that comes your way. With determination and the right mindset, you can achieve your goal of becoming a successful product manager.
Remember, this guide serves as a starting point, and your determination, passion, and commitment will be the driving forces behind your success. Best of luck on your journey to becoming a highly skilled and sought-after product manager!
