Learn from experienced product manager John Yurcisin and product management expert Leslie Grandy as they discuss managing multiple product teams. They talk about unifying teams through shared strategy, the unique challenges of managing and leading product teams, stakeholder management, strategies for organizational structures, and managing external product teams. They also touch on the Elevate program for product managers and how to stay informed and relevant as a product manager.
Continuous discovery is crucial in managing multiple product teams by staying informed about industry trends and customer needs.
Harmonizing the culture across multiple product teams is essential for effective management.
Creating an environment that allows each product manager to grow and providing sufficient support and opportunities for development is vital in managing multiple product teams.
Deep dives
The Importance of Continuous Discovery in Managing Multiple Product Teams
Continuous discovery is crucial in managing multiple product teams. It should be a shared responsibility among team members to stay informed about industry trends and customer needs. This can be done through continuous customer interactions, competitive analysis, and staying updated with industry blogs and thought leaders. The goal is to have everyone understand the shared strategy and align their work towards the same outcomes.
Creating a Unified Culture for Multiple Product Teams
Harmonizing the culture across multiple product teams is essential in managing them effectively. It is important to establish a culture of customer obsession, inclusivity, and collaboration. This helps to ensure that each team operates with the same values and understands the bigger picture. By fostering a unified culture, it becomes easier to address conflicts, ensure smooth collaboration, and maintain a cohesive approach towards product management.
Empowering Product Managers in Multiple Product Teams
As a manager of multiple product teams, it is crucial to create an environment that allows each product manager to grow in their role. This includes providing the right sponsorship, support, and opportunities for learning and development. Regular communication, one-on-ones, and monthly roadmap reviews can help ensure alignment and remove roadblocks. Additionally, seeking feedback from team members and partners can help in continuous improvement as a manager.
Addressing Obstacles in Managing Multiple Product Teams
Managing multiple product teams comes with its challenges. One key obstacle is ensuring effective communication and coordination among the teams. This can be addressed by establishing clear lines of sight, providing feedback loops, and fostering collaboration. Creating a culture of transparency and shared goals can also help address these obstacles. It is important to understand the unique dynamics of each team and adapt management strategies accordingly.
Value of Elevate Program for Product Managers
The Elevate program provides valuable support and resources for product managers aspiring to advance in their careers. By joining the program, product managers can access workshops, office hours, and connect with experienced executives and industry experts. This allows for continuous learning, networking opportunities, and gaining insights from those who have walked the path before. The program emphasizes the importance of continuous discovery, creating a unified culture, and empowering product managers in multiple product teams.
Learn from two Executives in Residence in The Product Management Center’s Elevate program (https://elevate.info.foster.uw.edu/) as they share stories and lessons from managing multiple product teams.
In this episode of the How to Succeed in Product Management Podcast, marketing professor Jeff Shulman and The Product Management Center advisory board member Red Russak welcome John Yurcisin (Change.org) and Leslie Grandy to talk about managing multiple product teams.Managing multiple product teams requires skillful coordination and guidance, aligning efforts toward shared goals. It involves constant communication, task management, and ensuring each team aligns with the broader objectives. It's akin to conducting an orchestra, harmonizing diverse efforts toward a unified outcome. Mastering this skill empowers PMs to navigate complexities and maintain a cohesive vision across projects, ensuring success in product development and delivery.
Disclaimer: All opinions of the speakers are their own.
What to Listen For:
00:00 Intro
04:01 Managing Multiple Teams
06:25 Unifying Teams through Shared Strategy
08:33 What is Unique About Managing and Leading Product Teams?
09:45 Challenges in Managing Multiple Teams
14:29 Stakeholder Management
21:58 What Is It Like To Manage Multiple Product Teams Daily
25:40 Elevate: Workshop for Product Managers
28:52 How Product Managers Stay Informed and Relevant
36:33 Strategies for Organizational Structures
39:51 Managing External Product Teams
44:06 Overcoming Daily Challenges in Managing Multiple Product Teams
49:05 Final Thoughts
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