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What I *actually* do as a Product Manager (in 2023)

What I Actually Do as a Product Manager (in 2023)

Hi, I'm Chloe, a product manager at Discord living in LA. I've worked in tech for almost a decade, having stints in various notable companies. Today, I’m here to re-explain what I do as a product manager (PM) and give you an inside look into the role.

The Origins of the Product Manager Role

Tech bros might say that PMs exist to make their lives easier or that they don't do anything. However, the PM role officially began nearly 100 years ago at Procter and Gamble with the concept of the "brand man." This idea revolutionized how products are managed, focusing on understanding customer needs and building things that people would buy. HP followed suit, leading to what we now recognize as product management, one of the most influential, business-critical, and well-paid roles in Silicon Valley.

The Scope of Product Management

PMs are sometimes referred to as the "CEOs of the product,” because they make crucial decisions. Here's the gist: PMs need to understand who, what, why, where, and how a product is built.

Examples of Tech Products:

  • Threads being launched
  • Voice memos on Hinge
  • Sending stickers in chat
  • Removing a button from an app

A typical PM team may include engineers, a product designer, and a data scientist. Larger teams include program managers, UX researchers, and more.

How Products Are Shipped

  1. Understand Phase: Identifying the problem, proposing solutions, measuring outcomes, and creating a game plan documented in a PRD (product requirements document).
  2. Firing Squad: The PRD is reviewed, often harshly, for approvals since the ask is substantial - possibly millions of dollars.
  3. Execution Phase: The team builds the product based on the MVP (Minimum Viable Product) approach. This includes A/B testing to ensure metrics and performances are as expected.
  4. Launch Phase: Once successful, the full product is launched - typically a low-key event.

Becoming a Product Manager

Various boot camps and online classes can help you break into product management. One option is Career Foundry's PM program, which includes dual mentors, career support, and a job guarantee.

The Day-to-Day Life of a Product Manager

Life as a PM is filled with meetings, progress reviews, morning stand-ups with engineers, and constant communication with designers. PMs are responsible for understanding user feedback, reporting bugs, writing new proposals, and coordinating marketing plans.

Key Traits of a Great PM:

  1. Decision-Maker: Provides clear direction and vision.
  2. Strong Communicator: Clearly explains decisions and understands audience needs.
  3. Opinionated and Informed: Stays ahead with future impacts and dependencies.
  4. Leadership Without Authority: Builds trust and leads teams effectively.
  5. Execution Master: Ensures projects move forward efficiently.

Is Being a PM Right for You?

The role is demanding and not glamorous. It's better suited for those who enjoy intellectual challenges and leadership. PMs usually work more than engineers for similar pay and face constant scrutiny.

Personal Insights

Despite the challenges, I love my job. The role brings financial stability, intellectual stimulation, and a sense of being part of something big. The salary is six figures, and I share more about it on my other videos.

Hopefully, this explained what I do as a product manager. Follow me for more insights on tech, adulting, health, and relationships.

Keywords

  • Product Manager
  • Silicon Valley
  • Tech Industry
  • Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
  • Product Launch
  • PRD (Product Requirements Document)
  • A/B Testing
  • Career Foundry
  • Product Team
  • Tech Products

FAQ

Q: What is a Product Manager (PM)?
A: A PM is responsible for identifying customer needs, proposing product solutions, making crucial decisions, and guiding the team from concept to launch.

Q: How do products get shipped?
A: Products are shipped after the understand phase, PRD reviews, MVP execution, and successful A/B testing.

Q: What skills are necessary to be a great PM?
A: Key skills include making strong decisions, effective communication, informed opinions, leadership, and efficient execution.

Q: What are the typical challenges faced by PMs?
A: PMs face demanding schedules, high expectations, constant scrutiny, and the need to lead without formal authority.

Q: How do I become a Product Manager?
A: Various boot camps and online courses, like Career Foundry’s PM program, can help you break into the field.

Q: Is the PM role financially rewarding?
A: Yes, PM roles typically offer six-figure salaries and financial stability.

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