How Did Product Managers Get Their First Product Manager Job?

Product managers come from a variety of backgrounds and career paths. Some individuals transition into product management from related roles within their organization, while others enter the field from different industries or disciplines. Common ways that product managers have landed their first PM jobs include:

Internal Promotion:

Transitioning into product management from another role within the same company can be a natural progression for individuals who have demonstrated leadership, domain knowledge, and a passion for product development.

• Demonstrated Leadership: Individuals who have demonstrated leadership qualities within their organization may be considered for internal promotion to product management roles. This could include leading cross-functional teams, spearheading successful projects, or taking on additional responsibilities beyond their current role.
• Domain Knowledge: Having a deep understanding of the company’s products, customers, and industry can make internal candidates well-suited for product management positions. They may have acquired this knowledge through previous roles within the organization or through their own initiative to learn and explore different aspects of the business.
• Passion for Product Development: Showing a genuine passion for product development and a desire to contribute to the company’s success can make internal candidates compelling candidates for product management roles. Their enthusiasm and commitment to the company’s mission can set them apart from external candidates.

Cross-Functional Experience:

Building experience in roles such as engineering, marketing, sales, or customer support can provide valuable insights into different aspects of the product development process. Many product managers leverage their cross-functional experience to transition into product management roles.

• Engineering: Individuals with backgrounds in engineering or technical roles often transition into product management positions. Their technical expertise allows them to understand product requirements, evaluate technical feasibility, and communicate effectively with engineering teams.
• Marketing and Sales: Professionals with experience in marketing and sales bring valuable insights into customer behavior, market trends, and product positioning. They may leverage their marketing or sales experience to identify market opportunities, define product strategies, and drive revenue growth.
• Customer Support: Working in customer support or service roles provides firsthand experience interacting with customers, understanding their needs, and addressing their concerns. Product managers with customer support experience are well-equipped to advocate for the customer’s voice in product development decisions.

Networking and Referrals:

Networking with current product managers, mentors, and industry professionals can provide valuable guidance and connections when seeking your first product manager job. Referrals from trusted contacts within your network can help you stand out to hiring managers.

• Building Relationships: Networking with current product managers, mentors, and industry professionals can provide valuable guidance and connections when seeking your first product manager job. Building genuine relationships with professionals in the field can lead to mentorship opportunities, job referrals, and insider knowledge about job openings.
• Referrals: Referrals from trusted contacts within your network can help you stand out to hiring managers and increase your chances of landing your first product manager job. Leveraging your network to secure referrals demonstrates your credibility, reliability, and fit for the role.
• Industry Events and Conferences: Attending industry events, conferences, and meetups provides opportunities to connect with product management professionals, learn about industry trends, and expand your network. Engaging in conversations, exchanging contact information, and following up with individuals you meet can lead to valuable career opportunities in product management.

In many businesses, product management is a strategic and dynamic function that oversees the development of products from conception to launch and beyond. If you’re considering going into product management, you might be wondering how to get your first job as a product manager and where to begin.