Building A Career in Product Management

Most product management advice is written for people who already have the job. This book is for everyone asking the question that comes first: is there a logical path in? Drawn from my own winding route (mining engineering at IIT, an MBA, a travel startup that failed, and finally Head of Product), the answer is that there isn't a single path. There's only deliberate preparation.

What it covers

• Why the PM role exists at all: the five pillars, from setting strategic direction to representing the customer
• Who actually becomes a PM, and why "you need a tech degree" is a myth
• Ten skills worth building on purpose, each with a way to acquire it
• How to gain real experience (side projects, internships, networking) before anyone hands you the title

Who it's for

Students, career-changers, and first-time PMs who keep being told they need experience to get experience. It's the book I wish someone had handed me when I was trying to break in.

"Do not repeat the old mistakes. Go make new ones." It's the family advice this book is built around.

Pairs with The Art of Product Prioritization for the tactical side of the work.