97: Transitioning to PM from a Non-Traditional Background

In this episode of the How to Succeed in Product Management Podcast, marketing professor Jeff Shulman and The Product Management Center advisory board members Red Russak welcome Jorie Kirschbaum Hynes (T-Mobile), Austin Morton (MN8 Energy), and Emily Claire Palmer (Wrapbook) to talk about transitioning to PM when you come from a non-traditional background. Transitioning to PM from a non-traditional background can be challenging but rewarding. While many PMs come from technical or business backgrounds, individuals with diverse experiences, such as design, marketing, or even unrelated fields like teaching or healthcare, can bring unique perspectives and skills to the role. To make this transition successfully, it's essential to acquire relevant knowledge through courses or self-study, network with professionals in the field, and highlight transferable skills like problem-solving, communication, and empathy during the job application process. Embracing your non-traditional background can set you apart and contribute to innovative product development.

Disclaimer: All opinions of the speakers are their own.

What to Listen For:

• 00:00 Intro
• 06:41 Number one mistake of people transitioning to PM from a non-traditional background
• 09:48 What do you wish you knew when you were starting out in PM?
• 13:35 Frustrating process of transitioning to PM
• 16:24 Domain knowledge
• 19:23 Overcoming the biggest challenge coming from a non-traditional background
• 25:07 The most valuable skill from your background that’s valuable now as a PM
• 28:33 How to find PM jobs? 
• 33:58 Optimizing your resume when transitioning to PM
• 39:32 The different corporate cultures and their impacts on a PM's responsibilities and work style
• 44:37 Do you need to a second MBA to get into PM?
• 49:25 Final thoughts