No experience as a PM? Here's how to get into PRODUCT MANAGEMENT!

Beatrice686

I want to get into product management but have no prior experience as a pm. How do I get my foot in the door?

Frances675

Product management is a relatively new field, and as such, there is no one set path to becoming a product manager. Many product managers come from diverse backgrounds, including engineering, marketing, design, and business.

That said, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of landing a product management role, even if you don't have prior experience as a PM.

Understand what product management is and what product managers do. A good place to start is the book "The Lean Product Playbook" by Dan Olsen.
Talk to as many product managers as you can. Ask them about their career paths, what they love and hate about their job, and what skills they think are essential for success in the role.
Get involved with product development in some way. This could mean working on a side project, participating in a design sprint, or simply taking on more responsibility at your current job.
Read articles and books about product management. In addition to "The Lean Product Playbook," other recommended reads include "The Innovator's Dilemma" by Clayton Christensen and "ReWork" by Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson.
Consider pursuing a formal education in product management. There are now a handful of institutions, including UC Berkeley and the University of Washington, that offer graduate-level programs in product management.

Lonnie270

Product management roles can range from managing existing products to creating and innovating new products. If you are looking to get into a product management role with no prior experience, there are several steps you can take to get yourself on the right track:

Study multi-disciplinary skills: Product management is not just about one field or domain. It requires an understanding of product design, user experience, technology, marketing, business strategy, and a range of other subjects. You can start by studying these various topics through books, courses, or other resources.
Listen and learn: In addition to formal study, you can also pick up a lot by speaking with experienced people. Look for opportunities to speak to experienced product managers, attend conferences, or work on a side project related to the industry.
Start Networking: Look for networking opportunities to meet recruiters, product managers, or industry contacts. LinkedIn, industry events, and online platforms like Product Management Network or GrowthHackers are great resources to get connected with people.
Use Professional Platforms: Professional networks like Upwork and Fiverr can be a great way to gain some hands-on experience. You can look for short-term consulting and freelance work related to product management, which can help bolster your resume and demonstrate your experience.
Look for Internships: Most companies are open to hiring interns with no prior experience. Working as an intern for even a couple of months can be a great way to get your foot in the door and gain some valuable experience and a network of industry contacts.

Finally, don’t be afraid to take risks and be creative in your approach. Product management jobs can be competitive and it may take some extra effort, but with the right skills and connections, you can open up some great opportunities.