Till this day, I have many apprehensions about whether I am “fit” to become a product manager. I often reassure myself not to get too attached to the idea and instead remind myself to “explore other roles until you have enough experience.” That is why I was surprised to read that this author also felt the same way, and how much insecurity actually defines whether you can succeed at being a product manager.
To my understanding, a product manager is the epitome of a leader. This does not only mean that you have the tactical skills associated with the position, but also that you genuinely care about the tiniest details. You hold the utmost responsibility in making sure the product succeeds, whether that means taking care of your team with something as small as coffee or maneuvering around large setbacks. Nothing is ever “not your fault.” This was the moment where reality really set in for me.
One question I have for the author is: how do you not crumble under all that stress? The author briefly mentions how they once deteriorated their own mental health by handling pressure through excessive work, also known as The Overachiever. That image lingered with me. Every caricature the author listed felt all too familiar. I have come across countless online influencers who fit into these categories (especially The Jargon Jockey), and they have only added to my own insecurities about whether I am cut out for this career.
My favorite point throughout the chapter was the reminder that there isn’t a single portrayal of what a successful product manager looks like. Having the “right” degree or background cannot compare with someone who actually knows how to delegate and organize teams. This was very reassuring, because I had always thought that my experience was not as up-to-par as my peers’. It gave me permission to think differently about my path and recognize that unconventional experiences can also hold weight.
My next question for the author would be: how do I translate those non-traditional experiences into something that resonates with recruiters? I want to learn how to frame my story in a way that shows value without forcing myself into boxes that don’t fit me. At the same time, I also want to avoid becoming the Jargon Jockey. I want to present myself as a genuine and approachable coworker, someone who can restore balance in tense environments . Overall, this reading gave me a lot of clarity on how a product manage should behave, and how important it is to not get swayed by seeds of doubt.
