Product Manager's Survival Guide - Chapter 1

Question 1

What does a proper product managers must be able to do?

Answer 1

1. Communicate clearly to people in all functions
2. Garner respect from people in those functions
3. Appreciate the timing and coordination of work produced
4. Create a shared vision with all those concerned
5. Know enough to recognize the quality of the work performed in the fulfillment of the vision

Question 2

What are the two professional attributes of product managers (product people)?

Answer 2

Being a business people and domain experts

Business people: being able to completely grasp every aspect of the product’s business
Domain experts (knowledge): comprehend the characteristics of the industry and technologies

Question 3

How do we describe product management leader to be?

Answer 3

Product management leader should be a “T-type/T-shaped” person
-> Broad business experience and deep technical expertise

Question 4

What are some personal attributes of a good product manager?

Answer 4

1. Environmental
2. Mindset
3. Action Orientation
4. Communication
5. Interpersonal skills
   6 Work Efficiency
6. Performance and Results
7. Individuality

Question 5

What are some examples of environmental attributes/clusters?

Answer 5

1. Product and technical knowledge and experience
2. Domain knowledge and experience
3. International business experience
4. Industry thought leadership

Question 6

What are some examples of mindset attributes/clusters?

Answer 6

1. Critical thinking skills
2. Systematic thinking
3. Problem-solving capability
4. Strategic thinking

Question 7

What are some examples of action orientation attributes/clusters?

Answer 7

1. Self starter
2. Risk management
3. Decisive action

Question 8

What are some examples of communication attributes/clusters?

Answer 8

1. Persuasive presentation skills
2. Clear and concise writing
3. Active and attentive listening
4. Active bservation

Question 9

What are some examples of interpersonal skills attributes/clusters?

Answer 9

1. Positive relationship building in the organization
2. Political judgment
3. Developing and maintaining positive consumer relationship
4. Developing and maintaining positive external partner relationship
5. Consideration of cultural diversity and cultural issues
6. Helping or coaching others

Question 10

What are some examples of work efficiency attributes/clusters?

Answer 10

1. Efficient time and work management
2. Dynamic prioritizing
3. Efficient negotiation skills
4. Adaptability and flexibility

Question 11

What are some examples of performance and results attributes/clusters?

Answer 11

1. Use of financial and other KPIs to evaluate the product’s business performance
2. Evaluation and improvement of business processes

Question 12

What are some examples of individuality attributes/clusters?

Answer 12

1. Managerial courage
2. Integrity and trust
3. Organizational instinct
4. Professionalism