The Importance of Product Knowledge for Executives

Executives joining startups need to have a deep understanding of the product to succeed. Many industry veterans fail to learn the product before starting, which can lead to their downfall in a fast-paced environment. An example provided illustrates how HubSpot ensured its new sales representatives thoroughly grasped the product by requiring them to create and present their own small businesses using HubSpot tools. This hands-on approach enabled reps to understand both the value and potential issues of the product, highlighting the essential connection between product knowledge and effective leadership.