Hi - I wanted to share this with the world in the hopes that someone might have some insight or advice regarding my current situation.
I am a product manager for a publicly traded B2B software company. The products that we develop are initially utilized primarily by internal teams; however, some of them are subsequently “promoted” to physical products that are sold to customers, albeit only after a transition to a different team to facilitate further productization (if that makes sense).
Four to five years of my professional life were devoted to B2B positions (Program Manager, Technical Program Manager, Product Manager). I am interested in transitioning into the consumer technology sector due to the potential it holds to develop practical, everyday items. How might I strengthen my resume at a consumer technology company during this period of rest at home? Classes? Supplementary Projects?
Is it also feasible (or sane) to attempt a career change this year?
It is not difficult to modify one’s line of work. Consider the products that you use on a daily or weekly basis, for example Reddit. Who is the user, why do they use it, what is the trigger that brings them to the product, what are the key metrics for the company, and how would you improve it or test your ideas? Your mindset would shift to that of a consumer PM, which is distinct from that of a business-to-business (B2B) PM. Understanding the consumer perspective is crucial in product management, as it allows you to tailor products to meet their needs and preferences. By analyzing user behavior and feedback, you can make informed decisions on how to improve the product and enhance the user experience. Remember to always stay curious, adaptable, and open to learning from your target audience.
I’m hooked on books, and I don’t want to think much about lean analytics.
It is definitely possible to attempt a career change this year, as many industries are still hiring and adapting to the current situation. Research different career paths that interest you and consider transferable skills you may already possess. Networking virtually and seeking mentorship can also help guide you in making a successful career change during this time.
Remember, the job market may be competitive right now, but with dedication and perseverance, it is still possible to make a change. Take advantage of online resources and virtual career fairs to explore new opportunities and connect with potential employers. Utilize this time to focus on self-improvement and skill-building to make yourself a stronger candidate in your desired field. With determination and a proactive approach, you can navigate through the challenges and come out on top in your new career path.
Consider taking relevant classes or certifications in consumer technology to enhance your knowledge and skills in the sector. Additionally, working on supplementary projects or freelance opportunities related to consumer technology can help demonstrate your passion and commitment to the industry during this period of rest at home. This can also help you build up your portfolio and gain practical experience that you can highlight on your resume. Networking with professionals in the consumer technology sector through online events or social media can also be beneficial in making connections and staying engaged with the industry. By taking proactive steps to continue learning and staying involved in the field, you can significantly strengthen your resume and increase your chances of transitioning successfully into a consumer technology company when the time is right.
I’m in the same situation. So far, I’ve looked at my current product portfolio through the eyes of a B2C product manager, tried to find and use as many metrics as I can, and improved my products using the same frameworks that B2C PMs would use. I know it doesn’t always fit perfectly, but I’m trying to learn more so that when I move to a B2C role, I’ll already know some things. I believe that having a diverse perspective and being willing to adapt your approach will ultimately make you a stronger product manager in any setting. It’s great that you’re already taking steps to broaden your knowledge and skill set in preparation for future opportunities.
Making a transition from B2B product management to consumer technology product management is definitely possible with the right approach. Here are some steps you can consider to strengthen your resume and increase your chances of success:
Understand the Consumer Tech Landscape:
Research and understand the consumer technology industry, including current trends, market leaders, and key players. Familiarize yourself with the challenges and opportunities specific to this sector.
Acquire Relevant Skills:
Identify the skills that are in demand in the consumer tech space. This might include skills in user experience (UX) design, consumer behavior analysis, and mobile app development.
Consider taking online courses or certifications in areas where you might have gaps. Platforms like Coursera, Udacity, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses on various tech-related topics.
Networking:
Attend virtual industry events, webinars, and meetups related to consumer technology. Networking with professionals already working in the field can provide valuable insights and potential job opportunities.
Utilize professional networking platforms like LinkedIn to connect with individuals in consumer tech and join relevant groups.
Personal Projects:
Work on personal projects related to consumer technology. This could be developing a mobile app, creating a website, or even designing a product. These projects can serve as tangible examples of your skills and passion for consumer tech.
Build a Consumer-Focused Portfolio:
Update your resume and portfolio to highlight relevant experiences and achievements that demonstrate your understanding of consumer needs and preferences.
Tailor your resume to emphasize skills and accomplishments that align with the requirements of consumer tech roles.
Take on Freelance or Volunteer Projects:
Offer your skills and expertise on freelance platforms or volunteer for projects that allow you to gain hands-on experience in consumer technology.
This not only adds relevant experience to your resume but also provides an opportunity to build a network within the consumer tech community.
Stay Updated on Industry News:
Subscribe to newsletters, blogs, and podcasts related to consumer technology to stay informed about the latest trends, product launches, and industry developments.
Mentorship:
Seek mentorship from professionals who have successfully made a similar transition. They can provide guidance, share their experiences, and offer valuable advice.
By combining these strategies, you can effectively position yourself for a successful transition into consumer technology product management. Keep in mind that patience and persistence are key during this process. Good luck!
While taking classes or working on supplementary projects may help strengthen your resume, gaining direct experience in the consumer technology sector through internships or freelance work would likely be more beneficial in showcasing your abilities and understanding of the industry. Additionally, networking with professionals in the consumer technology sector can also provide valuable insights and opportunities for career advancement. By actively seeking out internships or freelance opportunities in the consumer technology sector, you can gain hands-on experience and demonstrate your skills to potential employers. Networking with professionals in the industry can also help you stay updated on trends and make valuable connections for future job opportunities.
While understanding the consumer perspective is important, it is also crucial for a product manager to consider the business goals and metrics of the company. Balancing both perspectives is key to successful product management. Additionally, conducting market research and competitor analysis can provide valuable insights into improving the product and staying ahead in the market. By incorporating both user feedback and business objectives into product decisions, you can ensure that your product meets both customer needs and company goals. This holistic approach will help drive innovation and success in the competitive market landscape.
While it is important to be open to learning and adapting, it is also crucial to focus on mastering the specific skills and frameworks that are most relevant to your current role in order to excel in your current position. It may be more beneficial to deepen your expertise in B2B product management rather than spreading yourself too thin and trying to learn everything at once. By honing in on the specific skills needed for B2B product management, you can become the go-to expert in your field and truly excel in your current role. This focused approach will not only make you more valuable to your team but also set you up for success when future opportunities arise. Remember, it’s all about finding the right balance between expanding your knowledge and mastering the core competencies necessary for your current position. Keep up the great work, and continue to challenge yourself to grow as a product manager.