Technology is a field that is always evolving. Along with this, there has been a noticeable rise in the number of products that use technology in one form or another to give value to their customers. In this dynamic environment, Technical Product Managers play a crucial role in guiding the development and deployment of technologically sophisticated products, ensuring they meet the evolving needs and expectations of customers.
Pursuing a career in the technical field of product management offers promising opportunities for professional growth. However, the path to becoming a technical product manager isn’t always straightforward or clearly defined. Being a technical product manager myself for the last 10 years, I can guide you on how to be a technical product manager. In this blog post, we will understand the role and responsibilities of a technical project manager, the skills required for this role, job outlook, demand, and much more.
Who is a Technical Product Manager, and What Do They Do?
A Technical Product Manager is an expert overseeing the technical aspects of a product and making strategic decisions to ensure its competitiveness in the market. Their duties include coordinating with engineering teams and collaborating with Product and Business Managers to reach product objectives. They act as a bridge between technology and business objectives, necessitating a deep understanding of both realms. They play a crucial role in aligning engineering teams with stakeholders to ensure that product development meets business goals and market needs.
Their process typically begins with thorough market research to identify customer requirements and trends. They then articulate precise product specifications and features, translating technical complexities into actionable instructions for development teams. Throughout the product lifecycle, they provide guidance, address technical inquiries, and ensure alignment with the initial vision.
How to Become a Technical Product Manager in 5 Simple Steps?
Entering the technical realm of product management offers promising opportunities for professional growth, yet the path to becoming a technical product manager isn’t always straightforward. However, there are a few steps that you must follow to become a technical product manager.
Step 1: Master Skills
The initial step to becoming a technical product manager is to master the required skills.
Top Skills Needed to Become a Technical Product Manager
Let us look at the top skills required in how to become a product manager without a technical background.
A. Soft Skills:
Communication: Ability to effectively convey technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Leadership: Capacity to inspire and motivate cross-functional teams towards achieving product goals.
Collaboration: Skill to collaborate with engineers, designers, marketers, and other stakeholders to drive product development.
Problem-Solving: Aptitude to identify and address complex technical challenges throughout the product lifecycle.
Adaptability: Flexibility to adjust to changing priorities, market conditions, and technological advancements.
B. Hard Skills:
Software Development Skills: Software development skills are indispensable for technical managers, even if they don’t directly write code. They are responsible for overseeing software developers and ensuring smooth project management.
Data Structures and Algorithms: Understanding data structures relevant to data intelligence is essential. In the modern software landscape, leveraging and developing algorithms is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge.
Data Analysis: Proficiency in data analysis is crucial for a manager to make informed, data-driven decisions. Desired skills include familiarity with tools like R programming, Python, and Business Intelligence (BI) software such as Tableau and Power BI.
SQL Knowledge: Proficiency in SQL is crucial for both data analysis and application development tasks. Strong SQL skills enable individuals to understand intricate queries and design relational database management system (RDBMS) structures effectively.
UX/UI Design: UX/UI encompasses the front-end and interface design stages of product development. It’s essential for managers to actively engage in prototyping and wireframing to shape the product.
Product Roadmap Development: This involves outlining the journey a product will take to reach its development objectives, including predetermined milestones. This process demands a breadth of knowledge across various domains as the roadmap integrates input from marketing, business, operations, and market research teams.
Markuphero
Top Technical Product Manager Certifications / Degree
Technical product managers should obtain certification in Technical Product Management to demonstrate their expertise. Understanding the technical intricacies of products in the tech industry is crucial for success in this role.
Top Technical Product Manager Certifications / Degrees:
Certified Technical Product Manager (CTPM): Offered by the Association of International Technical Product and Management (AIPMM), this certification validates expertise in technical product management, covering areas such as product strategy, development, and lifecycle management.
KnowledgeHut Certification Programs: KnowledgeHut offers a PG in Product Management from Duke Corporate Education. The Product Management certification focuses on practical skills and best practices in product management.
MBA in Product Management: Pursuing an MBA with a specialization in product management from a reputable business school can provide a comprehensive education in business strategy, leadership, and product management principles.
Product Management Certificate Programs: Many universities and online learning platforms offer certificate programs in product management. These programs cover a wide range of topics related to product development, marketing, and strategy, providing valuable skills and knowledge for aspiring technical product managers.
Agile Certified Product Manager (ACPM): This certification is tailored specifically for professionals aspiring to excel in product management roles within Agile environments. Enrolling in Agile courses will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this certification.
Step 2: Determine Your Ideal Timeline
Determining your ideal timeline for mastering skills depends on several factors, including the complexity of the skill, your prior knowledge and experience, your learning style, and the amount of time you can dedicate to learning.
A. Start Learning in a Format That Suits You
People have different learning styles and preferences, so choosing the right format can enhance your motivation and success. In my opinion, it is very crucial that you choose the learning format that suits your criteria. Speaking of which, below is a list of learning options available for you to check:
Online Courses: Platforms such as KnowledgeHut, LinkedIn Learning, edX, and others provide a wide range of technical product management courses online. These courses offer flexibility, allowing you to learn at your own pace from the comfort of your home. Consider enrolling in KnowledgeHut SaFe Product Manager training, which equips you with the essential knowledge and confidence to pursue certification.
University Programs: A bachelor’s or master’s degree in technical product management provides a solid foundation in product development methodologies, market analysis, strategic planning, and leadership skills, preparing graduates for successful careers as technical product managers in today’s dynamic business landscape.
Webinars and Workshops: Attending webinars and workshops is a great way to enhance your technical product management skills. These short, focused sessions can provide valuable insights and practical tips.
B. How Long Does It Take to Become a Technical Product Manager?
The time it takes to become a technical product manager can vary widely depending on your starting point, career goals, and the specific path you take. Here are some factors to consider when estimating the timeline of how to become a technical product manager with no experience:
Work Experience: Gaining relevant work experience is essential for becoming a technical product manager. It typically takes a few years of work experience to move into a more senior role, like a technical product manager.
Professional Development: Consider investing time in professional development, such as attending marketing conferences, workshops, and seminars. These can help you acquire new skills and expand your network, potentially speeding up your career progression.
Networking: Building a strong professional network can open doors to job opportunities and mentorship. Networking takes time, so it’s a good idea to start early in your career.
Certifications: Obtaining relevant certifications can significantly enhance your credibility and readiness for a technical product manager role. Investing in the right certifications will equip you with the necessary competencies and skills, thereby making you more attractive to employers.
Step 3: Begin Building Your Portfolio / Resume
Crafting your resume is a vital part of job hunting. Understanding the technical product manager job description is essential to align it with your skills and work experience. Make sure to emphasize your strengths and competencies in your resume. While a resume provides a summary of your experience, skills, and accomplishments, a comprehensive portfolio enables you to differentiate yourself effectively from other candidates.
Resumeworded
Step 4: Where and how to find a job
There are various ways you can find a job. Let us look at each option in detail:
Online Job Boards and Websites: Utilize popular job search websites and job boards such as Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, Monster, and CareerBuilder. These platforms allow you to search for job openings, upload your resume, and receive job alerts.
Company Websites: Many companies post job openings on their own websites under the “Careers” or “Jobs” section. If you have specific companies in mind, check their websites regularly for job listings.
Networking: Leverage your professional network to discover job opportunities. Inform friends, family members, former colleagues, and mentors that you are job hunting. Attend networking events, conferences, and industry meetups to expand your network.
LinkedIn: Create or update your LinkedIn profile to highlight your skills, experience, and career goals. Connect with professionals in your field, follow companies, and join industry groups. LinkedIn also has a job search feature.
Professional Associations: Join industry-specific professional associations or organizations. These groups often have job boards, networking events, and resources for job seekers.
A. Top Companies Hiring Technical Product Manager
Let us look at the top companies hiring Technical Product Managers.
Company
Average Salary (USD) (Source: Glassdoor)
Google
$185,000
Meta (Facebook)
$180,000
Amazon
$175,000
Microsoft
$170,000
Apple
$168,000
Netflix
$165,000
Uber
$160,000
B. Job Outlook for Technical Product Manager
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 22% growth in product manager jobs from 2020 to 2030, significantly exceeding the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the rising need for technical products and services, necessitating skilled professionals to manage their development and launch. Technical product managers, with their unique blend of technical knowledge and product management skills, are particularly sought-after in this evolving landscape.
Technical product managers typically command higher salaries compared to general product managers due to their specialized skills. As mentioned earlier, the average salary for product managers in the US is around $110,422, with TPMs often exceeding this figure. Top companies can offer even higher salaries, with some exceeding $180,000 in the US.
Step 5: Ace the Interview
If your aim is to become a technical product manager, excelling in your job interview is essential. One effective approach is to anticipate and prepare for a wide range of interview questions specific to technical product management.
A. Brief Interview Process
During the interview process, your technical expertise and soft skills will both be evaluated. Assessments will be made regarding your qualifications and work experience to determine your suitability for the job role and alignment with the company culture. This typically entails multiple stages aimed at comprehensively evaluating the candidate.
B. Tips
Ensure thorough preparation by carefully reviewing the technical product manager’s job description and responsibilities.
Before the interview, it’s wise to research the company’s vision and culture.
Provide concrete examples from your real-life experiences to demonstrate your technical and leadership abilities.
Emphasize your people management skills and experience in leading cross-functional teams, including conflict resolution and team motivation.
Be concise and confident in your responses.
Avoid technical jargon and use straightforward language to answer questions.
Read case studies to gain insight into different facets of the role.
Who can Become a Technical Product Manager?
Technical product managers come from diverse backgrounds and industries. Individuals who can become technical product managers typically possess a combination of technical expertise, business acumen, and communication skills.
Technical Product Manager Requirements
The technical product manager oversees the complete lifecycle of a product, from its conceptualization to its release. To qualify for this role, specific skills and experience are essential. Let’s delve into the requirements in detail:
Bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, information technology, or a related field.
At least two years of experience in a technical position.
At least one year of experience in a senior or leadership role is highly preferable.
Ability to balance product development and design-specific responsibilities.
Experience and knowledge using SQL queries and with back-end and front-end programming languages such as Java, HTML, CSS, etc.
Why / Benefits?
A Technical Product Manager is a multifaceted professional, highly sought after for their diverse skill set and knowledge. Leading a team of product designers requires not only technical prowess but also effective communication, strategic thinking, and adaptability.
A. What’s the Demand for Technical Product Managers?
According to Glassdoor, the position of product manager ranks as the 4th best job in the United States for 2023, with approximately 12,173 job listings available on the platform. Over the past five years, interest in product management in the U.S. has doubled. This suggests that product management is expected to remain a relevant and in-demand field due to the ongoing need for innovative products in the market.
B. Salary details for the top 5 countries
Country
Average Salary Range (Source: Glassdoor)
United States
$150,000 - $185,000
Canada
C$120,000 - $150,000
United Kingdom
£80,000 - £110,000
Australia
A$115,000 - $140,000
Singapore
S$120,000 - $150,000
Common Challenges When Aiming to Become a Technical Product Manager with Solutions
When aspiring to become a Technical Product Manager, you could face various challenges. I have listed a few below:
Technical Skill Acquisition: To enhance technical proficiency, use targeted education and training programs, such as coding boot camps or online courses. Additionally, engage in hands-on projects or internships to apply and reinforce learning. Also, completing SAFe Product Manager training training will equip you with the essential knowledge and skills needed to excel in product management roles within Agile environments.
Work Experience: Seek opportunities for internships, freelance projects, or volunteer work to gain practical experience in product management. Network with professionals in the field and leverage mentorship opportunities to learn from experienced TPMs.
Communication with Cross-functional Teams: Develop strong communication skills through practice, feedback, and training. Actively participate in team projects, seek opportunities to lead discussions, and foster open dialogue with team members to ensure effective collaboration.
Strategic Thinking and Decision-making: Continuously educate oneself on industry trends and best practices in product management. Develop a strategic mindset by analyzing market data, prioritizing features, and aligning product development with business objectives.
Adaptability to Change: Embrace a growth mindset and stay flexible in response to evolving technologies and market dynamics. Continuously seek opportunities for learning and development to stay relevant and adaptable in the fast-paced tech industry.
Conclusion
To summarize, technical managers play a pivotal role in enhancing a product’s technical capabilities, ensuring it surpasses competitors and meets market standards. Scaling a product technically is a complex journey, underscoring the significant role of technical product managers in product-based businesses. The ideal candidate possesses extensive industry experience and a wealth of technical expertise. Staying proactive about skill development is essential for anyone in a rapidly evolving field like technical product management. Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest technological advancements ensure that you remain relevant and effective in your role. Once you complete that, you will have established a solid foundation for a lucrative career in technical product management.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I transition to a technical product manager?
To transition to a technical product manager role, focus on acquiring relevant technical skills, such as coding languages and data analysis. Gain experience by working closely with technical teams and taking on projects that involve product development. Network with professionals in the field, seek mentorship and consider pursuing certifications or additional education to bolster your qualifications.
2. Are technical product managers in demand?
Technical product managers are in high demand because companies are making more products that use technology. Their skills in both technology and managing products are really important for making successful products that people want to buy. As businesses keep focusing on technology, the need for skilled technical product managers will keep growing.
3. How do you become a technical product manager without experience?
To become a technical product manager without experience, start by gaining a strong understanding of product management principles and relevant technical skills through self-study, online courses, or boot camps. Volunteer for projects or internships that allow you to apply these skills and gain practical experience. Network with professionals in the field, seek mentorship and consider earning certifications to demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to the role.
4. What are some entry-level positions or roles that can lead to becoming a TPM?
Entry-level positions such as business analysts, quality assurance analysts, or project coordinators can serve as a platform for becoming a Technical Product Manager (TPM). These roles provide exposure to product development processes, stakeholder management, and technical environments, laying the groundwork for transitioning into a TPM role.
Lindy Quick
Trainer
Lindy Quick, SPCT, is an experienced Transformation Architect with expertise in multiple agile frameworks including SAFe, Scrum, and Kanban. She is proficient in leading agile transformations across diverse industries including manufacturing, defense, insurance/financial, and federal government. She is a strong communicator, manager, leader, and problem solver, seeking a challenging role in an organization that values effective and efficient value delivery.
Lindy, is the SAFe Practice Lead where she is responsible for fostering Lean-Agile principles and mindset in organizations and individuals through coaching, training, leadership development, and successful execution of transformations. Over her career, she has facilitated adoption of innovative ways of thinking and working within the context of organizational transformation, established a Lean-Agile Center of Excellence and Guiding Coalition to ensure transformation success, and provided recovery support for underperforming ARTs, ensuring the delivery of high-quality and predictable systems.
She has a Bachelor of Science degrees in Computer Science and German from Doane University, Crete, NE, and a Master of Business Administration degree from Baker University, Overland Park, KS. She holds several relevant certifications, including SAFe 6.0 Program Consultant Trainer, Certified SAFe 6 Program Consultant, Atlassian Managing Jira Projects for Data Center and Cloud, ISTQB Certified Tester, ICAgile Certified Professional in Agile Test Automation and Agile Testing, and Certified Scrum Master.
Lindy is also an active member of the professional community, serving as the Women in Agile Mid-Atlantic Chapter Co-Chair and a speaker at various events including the IT Revolution DevOps European Summit, Scrum Alliance Summit, and SAFe Gov’t Day.
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