How to Set and Achieve Better Product Goals

How to Set and Achieve Better Product Goals

As a Head of Product, setting and achieving product goals is critical to the success of your team and company. To do this, you need to be equipped with the right skills and strategies. In this essay, we will explore two unconventional but effective pieces of advice from the Department of Product and Reforge, respectively.

Firstly, the Department of Product recommends that you transition into the role of Head of Product by focusing on a few key areas. These include developing a deep understanding of the customers, their problems, and the market. Additionally, you should communicate effectively with all stakeholders, including the executive team, engineering, design, and sales teams. Finally, you need to build and manage a strong product team. By focusing on these areas, you will be able to make a smooth transition into the Head of Product role, with a clear vision and strategy.

Secondly, Reforge suggests using NCTs (north star metrics, critical metrics, and target metrics) to set better product goals. North star metrics are the overarching metrics that define success for your product. Critical metrics are the specific metrics that directly drive your north star metrics. Target metrics are the specific goals you set for your critical metrics. By using NCTs, you can align your team around a common goal and measure progress towards it. This approach helps you set better product goals that are both ambitious and achievable.

In conclusion, transitioning into the role of Head of Product requires a deep understanding of customers, effective communication with stakeholders, and strong leadership skills. Setting and achieving better product goals can be achieved by using NCTs, which align your team around a common vision and provide a clear roadmap for success. By following these unconventional but effective pieces of advice, you can become a successful Head of Product and drive your company towards its goals.