Building for a Passionate User Base: Lessons from Reddit and Traits of Great PMs

Kazuki

Hatched by Kazuki

Jul 15, 2023

3 min read

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Building for a Passionate User Base: Lessons from Reddit and Traits of Great PMs

Introduction:

Building a product for a highly opinionated user base can be a challenging task. However, by understanding the dynamics of user feedback and incorporating the traits of great product managers (PMs), it is possible to create a successful and impactful product. In this article, we will explore the insights gained from 5 years at Reddit and the key traits of great PMs that can help in building for a passionate user base.

Understanding User Feedback:

Passionate users are the backbone of any successful product. Instead of trying to destroy their passion, it is essential to harness it productively. However, not all feedback should be acted upon. It is crucial to identify the right voices to pay attention to. Often, the loudest individuals do not represent the majority of users or the ideal customer profile. To determine the significance of feedback, two factors need to be considered: the representation of the feedback within the user base (10% or more) and the influence of the users giving the feedback on others.

The Nuance of Product Discussions:

The public square is not always the best place to have a nuanced product discussion. Public back-and-forths rarely promote clarity or alignment, as the incentive in these discussions is often to win the conversation. To foster productive and constructive discussions, psychological safety plays a crucial role. Creating an environment where users feel safe to express their opinions and ideas is essential for gathering valuable insights.

The Golden Rule of Feedback:

Asking for feedback from users is a valuable practice, but it comes with responsibilities. If feedback is solicited but not acted upon, it can erode trust more than if no feedback had been sought in the first place. Therefore, the golden rule of feedback is simple: ask for feedback only if you genuinely intend to consider it. Alternatively, communicate your decision and the reasoning behind it to maintain transparency and trust.

Traits of Great PMs:

Great PMs possess a set of traits that enable them to navigate the challenges of building for a passionate user base effectively. These traits include:

1. Excellent Communication Skills:

Great PMs are proficient in written communication. Clear and concise writing is crucial for conveying ideas and aligning the team towards a common goal.

2. Consensus Building and Decision-Making:

PMs excel at building consensus within the team but can also make tough decisions when necessary. They strike a balance between collaboration and taking decisive action.

3. Customer-Centric Approach:

Great PMs live in the future and work backwards. They constantly fine-tune product strategy to maximize business impact. Seeking out customer insights through research, experiments, and cross-functional partnerships is a key aspect of their work.

4. Sense of Product Experience:

PMs possess a well-honed sense of what a well-crafted product experience feels like. They understand the importance of user satisfaction and strive to deliver exceptional experiences.

Conclusion:

Building for a passionate user base requires a deep understanding of user feedback dynamics and the traits of great PMs. By identifying the right voices, fostering constructive discussions, and treating feedback with respect, it is possible to create a product that resonates with users. Additionally, incorporating traits such as excellent communication skills, consensus-building abilities, and a customer-centric approach can amplify the impact of the product team and ultimately lead to success. Remember, the key is to embrace the passion of users and use it as a driving force for innovation and improvement.

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