"Why I’m Building Glasp? What It Takes to Become a Great Product Manager"

"Why I’m Building Glasp? What It Takes to Become a Great Product Manager"

In today's world, where technology is rapidly advancing, individuals are constantly seeking ways to make a meaningful impact and leave a legacy for future generations. This desire to contribute to the world is what drove me to create Glasp, a platform that aims to democratize access to other people's learning and experiences as a utilitarian legacy.

Throughout history, only a handful of individuals have managed to leave their mark in the form of books and traditions. But what if we could effectively learn from the experiences of others? As German statesman Bismarck once said, "Only a fool learns from his own mistakes. The wise man learns from the mistakes of others." By creating a system that allows everyone to share and develop their learnings as their legacy, we can provide great value not only to humanity but also to all life on Earth.

On the other hand, aspiring product managers often find themselves grappling with the question of what it takes to become great in their field. It is essential to consider three primary factors when evaluating the role: core competencies, emotional intelligence (EQ), and company fit.

Core competencies encompass a range of skills that every product manager should possess. These skills include conducting customer interviews, performing user testing, and market assessments. The best product managers have honed these skills through years of defining, shipping, and iterating on products. Additionally, defining and tracking success metrics is crucial for assessing the impact of a product.

Emotional intelligence plays a significant role in the success of a product manager. While knowing the technical aspects of the job is essential, the ability to empathize with customers, understand their pain points, and build authentic relationships is equally crucial. Great product managers possess strong relationship management skills, enabling them to inspire and support both internal and external stakeholders. They are self-aware, avoiding personal biases and remaining objective in their decision-making. Moreover, social awareness allows them to understand customer emotions and concerns, as well as the needs and perspectives of other teams within the company.

Finally, the concept of company fit cannot be overlooked. Different companies have varying philosophies about the role of product managers and their involvement in the product development process. Some companies prioritize technical skills, while others focus on the partnership between product managers and engineers. The stage of the company also plays a role, as startups often require product managers to take on multiple responsibilities, while mature companies have more defined roles. Understanding the dynamics of the company and aligning personal strengths and values with their goals is crucial for success.

In conclusion, both the creation of Glasp and the pursuit of becoming a great product manager share a common thread - the desire to make a meaningful impact and leave a legacy. By democratizing access to knowledge and experiences through Glasp, we can ensure that future generations can learn from the mistakes and successes of others. Similarly, aspiring product managers must develop core competencies, emotional intelligence, and find the right company fit to excel in their roles. Three actionable pieces of advice for both endeavors are:

1. Embrace a growth mindset: Continuously seek opportunities to learn, improve, and adapt. Learning from the experiences of others and striving for personal growth will pave the way for success.

2. Foster strong relationships: Building authentic and trustworthy connections with stakeholders is crucial. Great product managers inspire and support others, creating an environment where everyone can thrive.

3. Understand the company dynamics: Take the time to understand the company's philosophy, values, and expectations. Finding the right company fit will greatly contribute to personal and professional growth as a product manager.

Through Glasp and the pursuit of becoming great product managers, we can contribute to the betterment of society and leave a lasting impact. As Mahatma Gandhi once said, "My life is my message." Let us make our messages visible and accessible to others, creating a world where knowledge and experiences are shared and developed for the benefit of all.