There are two main tracks for getting hired as a product manager: applying internally and looking for a new employer. Let’s take a look at both cases and discuss recommendations that will help you stand out.
→ Test your product management and data skills with this free Growth Skills Assessment Test.
→ Learn data-driven product management in Simulator by GoPractice.
→ Learn growth and realize the maximum potential of your product in Product Growth Simulator.
→ Learn to apply generative AI to create products and automate processes in Generative AI for Product Managers – Mini Simulator.
→ Learn AI/ML through practice by completing four projects around the most common AI problems in AI/ML Simulator for Product Managers.
Contents
Becoming a product manager at your current company
Tips for getting internally promoted to a product role:
- Don’t wait for a “product manager” position
- Take advantage of domain expertise at the market level
- Take advantage of domain expertise at the product level
- Make the most of your home field advantage
- What hiring managers are looking for
Tips for transitioning at a new company:
- Don’t wait for a “product manager” position
- Look for positions where you speak the industry’s language
- Activate your network and don’t be shy about recommendations
- Tailor your experience to the company and product
- Work with a product mentor
- Do a pet project
Conclusion: Making the transition to product
Becoming a product manager at your current company
Switching to product management at a company you already work for will usually be easier and more feasible than finding a new employer entirely.
The advantage is that you don’t have to start from scratch with learning names, integrating into the corporate culture, or mastering new processes. Plus you should have had enough time to gain a deep understanding of the business, product, market, and user base.
When this is combined with relevant experience, you should have a much easier transition to a product role.
Of course, internal transitions are not an option for everyone. Some companies don’t have any vacant product positions. And sometimes you may not want to stay at the company, in any role.
