"Our 6 Must Reads If You're Hiring a Product Manager: The Surprising Benefits of Forgetting, Memory and Decision-Making"

"Our 6 Must Reads If You're Hiring a Product Manager: The Surprising Benefits of Forgetting, Memory and Decision-Making"

As companies grow, the need for effective product managers becomes crucial. These individuals are responsible for replicating themselves and creating a team of skilled builders who can execute the founders' vision. But what qualities should you look for when hiring a product manager? In this article, we will explore the surprising benefits of forgetting, the role of memory in decision-making, and how these concepts can be applied to the hiring process.

Memory, as we know it, is a complex process involving various regions of the brain. The hippocampus, nestled deep in our temples, plays a crucial role in storing and retrieving information. The prefrontal cortex, located behind our foreheads, is responsible for the retrieval function, while the back of the brain houses the hard drive, where most memories are stored. Interestingly, we also have a working memory located in the prefrontal cortex, allowing us to temporarily hold information for a short period.

But what happens when we forget? Contrary to popular belief, forgetting can actually be beneficial. Imagine if we remembered every single detail of our lives, every experience, every person we've met. It would be overwhelming and anxiety-provoking. Forgetting allows us to generalize, reducing anxiety caused by constantly encountering novelty. It enables us to move on from traumatic events and prevents us from being weighed down by emotional memories.

In the context of hiring a product manager, the ability to forget can be advantageous. Intellectual humility, the recognition that our memory is fallible, is a valuable trait. A person who relies too heavily on their memory may be prone to decision-making errors. On the other hand, someone who takes their time and carefully considers the options is more likely to make better choices. Slowing down and thinking through problems can lead to more accurate and thoughtful decision-making.

So, how can these insights be applied to the hiring process for a product manager? Here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Look for intellectual humility: Find candidates who understand the limitations of memory and are willing to take their time when making decisions. Intellectual humility allows for a more thoughtful and careful approach.

2. Assess problem-solving skills: A product manager needs to be able to think through complex problems and make strategic decisions. Look for candidates who can demonstrate their ability to consider multiple options and analyze different perspectives.

3. Prioritize adaptability: As a company grows and its vision shifts, a product manager must be able to adapt and pivot. Look for candidates who have a track record of embracing change and are open to learning new skills and approaches.

In conclusion, hiring a product manager is a critical decision for any growing company. Understanding the surprising benefits of forgetting and the role of memory in decision-making can help in identifying the right candidate. Intellectual humility, problem-solving skills, and adaptability are key qualities to look for. By incorporating these insights into the hiring process, companies can build a strong team of product managers who are equipped to execute the founders' vision.