The Power of Learning in Public and Evolving as a Product Manager

The Power of Learning in Public and Evolving as a Product Manager

Introduction:

In today's fast-paced and ever-changing world, continuous learning has become a necessity for personal and professional growth. However, most individuals tend to "learn in private," consuming content without actively participating or creating their own. This article explores the concept of learning in public and its benefits, as well as how it can be applied to the role of a product manager.

Learning in Public:

Learning in public refers to the practice of creating learning exhaust, sharing your knowledge, insights, and experiences with others. Rather than judging your success based on external validation such as claps or upvotes, the focus is on creating content that you wish you had found during your own learning journey. By documenting what you did and the problems you solved, you not only contribute to the collective knowledge but also reinforce your own understanding.

Open Source Your Knowledge:

At every step of the way, it is crucial to document your learnings and share them openly. This practice not only helps others who may be facing similar challenges but also enables you to receive feedback and support from the community. It is essential to embrace the possibility of being wrong or feeling uncomfortable, as it is through these experiences that true growth occurs. By speaking and teaching while you code, you invite others to become your mentors, offering valuable insights and quests for you to complete.

Amplifying Knowledge:

Learning in public allows you to amplify the knowledge of others while cultivating a beginner's mind. By sharing your experiences, you not only benefit yourself but also enable others to learn from your journey. This collaboration and knowledge exchange create a thriving community that supports and empowers one another. As you contribute to the collective knowledge, you may find that people start seeking your help, further solidifying your expertise and growth.

The Evolution of a Product Manager:

As a product manager, continuous learning is vital for success. Wearing multiple hats and dealing with diverse responsibilities, a product manager must constantly acquire new knowledge and skills to solve complex problems effectively. Curiosity and a love for learning become essential qualities in this role.

The Learning Equation:

Learning can be broken down into two key components: knowledge and skills. Knowledge refers to the theoretical understanding of concepts or subjects, while skills are the application of that knowledge through practice and experience. The equation for learning can be represented as Learning = (Knowledge * Skills) + Ability.

Quadrants of Growth:

To understand the growth trajectory of a product manager, we can categorize them into four quadrants based on their level of knowledge and skills.

• Quadrant 1: High Knowledge; Low Skills: Product managers in this quadrant tend to accumulate knowledge across various areas of product management. They are often entrusted with driving and executing major initiatives within the organization.

• Quadrant 2: High Knowledge; High Skills: This quadrant represents the ideal state for growth as a product manager. Here, individuals possess both extensive knowledge and the ability to apply it effectively. It is crucial to balance learning new skills while continuing to build upon existing knowledge.

• Quadrant 3: Low Knowledge; Low Skills: Ideally, product managers should avoid falling into this quadrant. However, given the dynamic nature of the role, continuous learning is inherent, and even in this quadrant, growth is possible.

• Quadrant 4: Low Knowledge; High Skills: Product managers in this quadrant tend to specialize in a specific domain and excel in building products within that domain. While expertise is valuable, it is essential to continue expanding knowledge and exploring new areas to ensure holistic growth.

Actionable Advice:

• 1. Embrace the habit of learning in public: Share your knowledge, insights, and experiences openly. Document your learnings and contribute to the collective knowledge.

• 2. Seek feedback and support: Engage with the community, ask for help, and be open to constructive criticism. Genuine learners attract mentors who can guide and support them on their journey.

• 3. Balance knowledge and skills: Continuously acquire new knowledge while honing your skills. Strive to be in quadrant 2, where you possess both extensive knowledge and the ability to apply it effectively.

Conclusion:

Learning in public and evolving as a product manager go hand in hand. By embracing the practice of creating learning exhaust and sharing your knowledge, you amplify the knowledge of others while fostering personal growth. The key lies in continuously acquiring new knowledge, applying it through practice, and seeking support from the community. By learning in public, you not only benefit yourself but also contribute to the growth and development of others.