by Product managers are often referred to as the ‘CEO of a product’ because they can transform the product creation landscape.
They oversee the product designing, developing, and launching process, interact with the consumer to understand their preferences and collaborate with different teams to develop a product that aligns with the customer’s demand.
They work across all industries and companies of all sizes.
Planning to become a product manager? Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to be a product manager in India.
How to become a product manager?
Step 1: Learn the fundamentals of product management
Take up a course to build a strong foundation in product management. Start by pursuing a bachelor’s degree in product management or a similar field from a recognised university. Additionally, you can also pursue a master’s degree to enhance your career prospects or equip yourself with advanced skills and knowledge.
These courses will help you find answers to questions like:
- What is product management?
- Who is a product manager?
- What are the roles and responsibilities of a product manager?
- How to conduct effective customer research?
- How to prioritise different product features?
Step 2: Apply for jobs
The next step is to start looking for jobs. Start with an entry-level position like an executive or assistant, gain experience, and become a product manager over time. Remember that you need excellent work experience to become a successful product manager. Therefore, take up jobs that will enhance your resume and career prospects.
Step 3: Take up a certificate course
Product managers often take certificate courses with their ongoing job or after completing master’s degree. These courses equip you with advanced skills and knowledge to skyrocket your career. Additionally, they help develop your business acumen to strategise effective product management strategies.
These product management certificate courses also help you connect with industry experts and learn in-depth about concepts like product strategy, market structure analysis, concept development, solution design, and understanding customer preference, pricing, and brand positioning.
What does a product manager do?
Product managers are an integral part of an organisation. They perform an array of duties in an organisation. Here are some common roles and responsibilities of a product manager:
- Determining customer needs
- Creating and communicating product development strategy
- Defining product vision and roadmap
- Overseeing product teams during the product life cycle
- Developing and making marketing campaigns to promote a product or service
What are the top skills of a product manager?
A product manager requires a unique blend of soft and hard skills. Here are some skills of an excellent product manager:
- Interpersonal skills
- Technical expertise
- Business skills
- Research skills
- Analytical skills
- Marketing skills
- Strategic thinking
- Critical thinking
- Problem-solving skills
Top career alternatives in product management
Product management is a vast field with various career opportunities. Every organisation, regardless of its size or business type, requires product management professionals.
Here are some top career alternatives in product management:
- Associate product manager
- Senior product manager
- Director of product
- Vice president of product
- Chief product officer
As the demand for product managers continues to rise, developing a career in this field can be lucrative.
