Product Manager Career Information

The title says it all: Product managers determine what products to make, develop a supporting strategy, and ensure each product’s success. Typically, the product manager works on or leads a team, working cross-functionally on a digital or physical product. Core product management responsibilities include setting a vision for the product, coordinating its release and marketing, evaluating customer response, and brainstorming future ideas and improvements.

What skills do you need to become a product manager?

The best product managers have strong customer service and interpersonal skills. They lead a team and work across internal and external stakeholders to make a product a success. As a product manager, you should be able to manage various relationships with ease and empathy, mediating any conflicts that arise. In addition, you should know how to stay organized, think strategically, and allocate resources. Finally, you’re skilled when it comes to handling data, performing market assessments, and tracking metrics of success.

What experience and/or certifications do you need to be a product manager?

The technical skills and experience required for a product manager vary widely based on the product and its users. Most product managers have a bachelor’s degree from a four-year institution, but some companies prefer an MBA. Undergraduate marketing degrees are more prevalent than business administration degrees. Product managers also have degrees in management science or business and commerce.

Most product managers have considerable prior experience specializing in management, business, or marketing before applying to their role. Because data is increasingly important in the world of product, you should know statistics and financial modeling, and brush up on tools like Google Analytics and Tableau. For digital products, basic engineering and design knowledge will help you understand certain product limitations. A bonus: Engineers and designers will love working with you!

What companies and industries employ product managers?  

Product managers typically find roles in the tech, financial services, and healthcare industries. While product management jobs are available across the country, tech and finance hubs like New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Boston all offer a plethora of opportunities for recent graduates.

What is the job outlook and salary for product managers?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of promotion and marketing management jobs is expected to grow by 8% over the next decade, which is faster than average. Salaries vary across industries, but the median pay across different marketing management occupations is $132,620 per year.