The Differences Between Successful and Unsuccessful Product Managers

The Differences Between Successful and Unsuccessful Product Managers

Introduction:

Being a successful product manager requires a unique set of skills and qualities. While the role of a product manager is to make decisions about what to create, they also have the responsibility of leading a team and taking ownership of the product or business. In this article, we will explore the commonalities between successful and unsuccessful product managers, as well as unique insights from the story of Ben Silbermann, the co-founder of Pinterest.

Success Factors:

One of the key factors that differentiate successful product managers from unsuccessful ones is their ability to take responsibility for the product or business. While they may not have the authority to make personnel decisions like a CEO, successful product managers take ownership and lead their teams with a sense of accountability.

In the case of Ben Silbermann, the co-founder of Pinterest, he never gave up on the startup, despite slow initial growth. The reason behind his perseverance was twofold. Firstly, Silbermann's love for collecting things, which he saw as a projection of his identity, motivated him to continue working on Pinterest. This unique insight highlights the importance of passion and personal connection to the product or business.

Secondly, the prospect of telling people he failed was too embarrassing for Silbermann. This fear of failure pushed him to keep tinkering and improving the site, even when the numbers were not in their favor. This anecdote emphasizes the importance of determination and resilience in the face of challenges.

Common Points:

While Silbermann's story provides valuable insights, there are common points that can be derived from both successful and unsuccessful product managers.

Firstly, early adopters who take expected actions play a crucial role in the success of a product or platform. Silbermann personally contacted the first 5,000 users of Pinterest, building a personal connection with them. This hands-on approach and dedication to the initial users helped in keeping the platform going. This highlights the importance of building a loyal user base and continuously engaging with them.

Another common point is the need to do things that don't scale. Silbermann's personal communication with the first users of Pinterest, even giving out his cell phone number, demonstrates the willingness to go above and beyond to ensure the success of the product. This personalized approach is often overlooked but can have a significant impact in the early stages of a product or business.

Furthermore, successful product managers have a clear focus on their target audience and market trends. Silbermann's vision of Pinterest as a platform for people to continue their collections online reflected his understanding of the human need for self-expression and identity projection. Despite the initial resistance to the grid-like design, Silbermann's focus on the concept of collections eventually paid off.

Actionable Advice:

1. Take ownership and lead with accountability. Successful product managers understand the importance of taking responsibility for the product or business they are managing. This sense of ownership drives them to make informed decisions and lead their teams effectively.

2. Build a loyal user base through personal connections. Early adopters who take expected actions can be instrumental in the success of a product or platform. By personally engaging with the initial users, product managers can build a strong foundation and foster a loyal community.

3. Stay focused on your target audience and market trends. Understanding the needs and desires of the target audience is crucial for product managers. By staying aware of market trends and aligning the product with the changing demands of the users, product managers can ensure the long-term success of their product.

Conclusion:

The differences between successful and unsuccessful product managers lie in their ability to take ownership, build personal connections with users, and stay focused on the target audience. The story of Ben Silbermann, co-founder of Pinterest, provides unique insights into the mindset of a successful product manager and the importance of passion, determination, and resilience. By incorporating these insights and following actionable advice, aspiring product managers can increase their chances of success in this challenging role.