I work at a boutique consultancy, usually with strategy questions directly with C-level managers. This time they have asked us to take on a more operative role as a product manager. I have been selected, and as there seems to be a lot of experienced managers here, I come to you for advice. What are some important tips & things to consider now that I am about to step into this role at a company where I mostly know one c-level manager from previous work? Many stakeholders that I will talk to daily

likehelpful
Posting as :
works at
You are currently posting as works at

Couple of things..

1 - Know your real stakeholder(s), and know who is just trying to get their "nice to have" in there. Its important to keep everybody as happy as possible but ultimately your stakeholder(s) are who really matter.

2- Listen carefully. They will tell you about requirements and details even when you aren't pushing for them. Be able to translate your conversations to the team.

3 - Know your audience. Tailor your conversations/demos/meetings to them, be able to translate the technical jargon into things they care about.

4 - Don't forget the business objective. They came to you for a reason, make sure you keep that in mind when working. I.e. if they wanted to go to cloud... why? Google partnered with a large health provider to use analytics to analyze cancer results fasater.. their business objective is to save lives so I build my conversations around being able to answer "how will X save a life".

likehelpful

Absolutely, reach out if you need any help!

like

Listen and ask A LOT of questions.

like

Absolutely! Thats my gameplan. Any concrete examples of Q's which are important but easy to overlook? Initially I will be setting up a lot of "get-to-know"+initial work/to-dos syncs with for example regional managers, customer support manager etc.

The product exists to fulfill business needs/processes for stakeholders. Be their champion!

like

There are many angles to consider, like G1 mentioned.

Learn the business before taking the wheel too much. They'll respect you more for thoughtful analysis before action. Ask questions beyond the norm. Brainstorm and collaborate. Find common ground between stakeholders.

Identify happy path first, then edge cases. Too many people get blinders and stay on one side or the other. Likelihood of something being needed impacts priority.

Identify the core pillars. Measure changes and defects by pillar impact.

like

Related Posts

I have a interview scheduled for Data Scientist job can any one suggest me. I am looking for a career transition to Data Science domain.

Hello Folks, today I received offer ATOS for position as “Consultant” and a GCM level 4. I am from background of data science experience. Could any one help me what is “consultant” without any domain name according to ATOS. ? Thanks a lot for your response. I am new here.

like

as an analyst how do I network and maintain connections with external orgs (clients and more so buyers) after the deal has closed? I have their contacts of course but do I add them on LinkedIn after? Is is better to maintain connections w the junior team and how should I go about it w senior management? This is for general networking not that I’m trying to hop to a PE/other org immediately. TIA!

like

How will be the Technical product specialists role at SAP ..? Work wise and learning opportunity wise..

like

Hi I have 2.5 years of experience in python Diango and I am looking for a change. Can someone help me finding out the mid sized and large sized companies who has openings for python diango Role . Thank You

like

Side hustle or startup ideas for someone who isn’t technical/doesn’t code? Where should I look or where to begin? I don’t have any strong passions or specific skills that I’m confident in. What books, articles, blogs, orgs, events, people I should follow for inspiration that has helped you? I have some cash to invest and am looking for a part time hustle that can cash flow at least a little bit of money on the side.

like

Anybody work in-house in adult entertainment? Not interested professionally, but genuinely curious what that work experience is like, or how you transition between roles and companies.

like

Hi all,
I've applied for the role of Sr Internal Auditor (L5) in Amazon India. And in the preliminary form they are asking for the expected CTC
Would appreciate if someone could let me know the salary range for that role
My current CTC in EY is ~ 16.7 LPA including variable component and the raise for the coming year is yet to be announced

Thanks in advance

like

Hi, I've got an offer from Iqvia for the role of an associate consultant.. I'm highly inclined towards working with data using SQL/Python which is my skillset.

Just wanted an idea about the amount of exposure i can expect and whether the work is enjoyable.

Thanks

Anyone work/worked for NFP? I have a second interview tomorrow for an account manager role. Just wondering if anyone has any pros or cons I should know about. Thanks!

like

Need help on how I transition my career from Audit to Management Consultancy. I have only completed BCom and ACCA (UK Chartered Accountant) and have worked for over 2 years at EY.

like

Feel like I missed the boat years back to get into Director of Product role. Back in the day there was only Senior in between a Director role, now there’s Lead and Group levels, so much hierarchy now.

like
like

I work as a Solution Specialist (sales rep) at an Authorizer Verizon retailer. Phone/wireless sales is not something I want to do forever. I have 4 years mobile sales experience and 3 additional years of niche sales/ customer service experience. I’m feeling stuck and every career/job move fells it is a step backwards. Does anybody have any advice on how to power through this or what other routs I could go?

like

Recently i was selected for a Talent acquisition role, i heard earlier that Publicis sapient is giving Wfh to all employees but for my case they are asking to be onsite.
Is it only for Talent acquisition team they are only asking to be onsite?
Because I heard for some of my friends who are working in developing side are asked to do Wfh.

like

I am starting a new job where I will be investigating sexual discrimination cases. Employment law will be a new practice area for me. Do you have any recommendations on good learning resources? Any treatises?

like

Hey guys,
Hope you all are doing well
I'm writing this post to get a referral for company switch from TCS to MNC or any start up as a Python developer.
I'm well versed in Python, web development using django, AL and Data science.
I'm still improving my skills at my best.
Please do let me know if u have any opportunity suiting my profile.
Feel free to ping me.

Thanks in advance.

like

Need referral at BNY Mellon for Data Engineer role.

Skill set : Oracle plsql, Informatica, Cognos, Tableau, Agile

YOE : 10 Years and 3 months

like

Looking to become a UI/UX designer. I have no skills in that field. Any suggestions for best first step? Maybe a Bootcamp or Course?

like

More Posts

How do NYC big law real estate groups hold up during recessions? Are they one of the harder hit corporate groups or is there more stability?

like
like

Hi! I’ve started to consult a new agency, an 8 month contract ending Dec,2020.
The client is to ‘pay’ me in art plus a retainer reduced by over 60% of my standard rate (because of the painting.
Art=1 piece at the end of the contract, but only if I complete the entire contract. IF I don’t stay on/company doesn’t get off the ground or relationship doesn’t work out, he can sever the contract. He is difficult & volatile and has yet to give me a contract 1 month in. Have I agreed to a bad deal? help

like

“Alexa. Am I a nerd?”. This is my latest connected device. What’s yours?

Post Photo
likesmart

Hello
What is a good salary for a cota in a pediatric setting in south Florida (hh)?

like

I have been working as technical customer success manager from last 2 years and worked as Business analyst for 1 year. In total I am holding an experience of 3.2 years. I am good with SQL, Advanced Excel, Google Data Studio, Tableau, Google Sheets, Power Point, Jira, Asana etc.
I am looking for a remote opportunity for the role of Data Analyst / Business Analyst. That would be great if you can help me find any such roles.

like

Does anybody know what the typical salary range is and total comp for someone starting out as an internal or external wholesaler? If you are one of these, can you share about your experience in terms of whether you liked it or not, work life balance, travel, etc?

like

Hello All,


Is it possible to get the notice period reduced in any manner? Buyout is not an option that’s available. But is there any other way? Maybe by utilising the remaining earned leaves?

Thanks

How much are you all spending on decor/flowers? I am in north jersey and want to spend no more than 4000, and wondering if that’s enough? Medium/tall centerpieces are 150+ and I’m trying to do some faux floral backdrops/arches myself

Post Photo
like

How do you say “buy this product” in a headline without saying “buy this product”?

Sincerely,
A Junior Copywriter with a shitty brief and an even shittier turnover time 😭😭🥹

Does Deloitte's BAL support spouse EAD filing after i140 approval? anyone with experience?

Is VOIS Vodafone calling employees to office yet?? Any official communication happened? Please comment if you have any information.

Guys the amazon is burning for 16 days and no one is doing anything about it. We have the power of communication but feel helpless right now. We need to use our knowledge for good What could we do??

likehelpful

Any strategists out there looking for a part time gig ?

like

I’ve been in banking for 10 years, 9 of that as a branch manager. I want to transition out of banking, not sure where to start. Any advice?

like

Ever downloaded PNG from Google images? 🥲

Post Photo
funnylike

Does anyone have a poor relationship with their alma mater? This can be in general or department specific. For example, I have always felt disappointed with career services from my law school. I feel struggling alumni, like those that failed the bar or remain unemployed long enough to be recorded as negative statistics for the school’s ranking, have already done their damage so they have no incentive to help you any further.

like

HR opinion: Do I have any leverage as a hospital nurse case manager in negotiating earned time? I have 15 years within the organization, left for 10 months to be remote during the pandemic while sorting out childcare as immunocompromised family helped. Now HR is restarting my ET as a new employee. I realize I left, but not on bad terms and I am an exemplar and respected employee. I thought I’d have the upper hand with the nursing shortage but I’m getting the “rules are rules” response. Help!?!

like

What’s the salary for respiratory therapists in Florida since we’ve had the housing and gas increase ? I have 6 years experience with ICU, level II NICU, and PICU experience. My base is $33 and I have a $6 tot differential of nights and weekends - which I always work this shift.

likehelpful

Additional Posts in Consulting

Any recommendations on books to get up to speed on leading/managing teams as a new manager in consulting? Preference towards tangible case studies etc. vs. high level concepts.

like

Hey 🐠, what are your recommendations of books, articles, or practice tips to improve communication, both verbal and written? Want to be stronger at running meetings, pitching ideas, writing (cont’d)

like

Is MBB and management consulting losing its value among young people as employer? Since i noticed majority of young people currently want to work for FAANG, startups, crypto, Unicorns, want to open their own things, etc. I guess in 2000s and 2010s consulting was a top choice for graduates. But what about now? Would love to listen to your thoughts and observations on that one

like

Which top consulting firms, if any, will pay for your MBA?

like

Anyone have CFP Prep books they don’t not need anymore?

likesmart

Does anyone know if things like jury duty or bereavement leave count against your utilization? I've heard it doesn't count the same way holidays and PTO do, but not sure how that is possible.

like

Has anyone went to college in Europe and got a job in the US upon graduation? Care to share the experience?

like

Best consulting firms with best WLB? Do they exist? Young professional starting to think about where I'd like to work hard to end up in the next 5-10 years.

like

How's your week? 🐟

like

Anyone have any tips for better managing their relationship with technology, being more present, and reducing the amount of time spend on things like... well this! 😔

like

What’s the craziest thing you’ve heard of or been a part of on your firm laptop gchat/sametime/IM/Chat/etc. ?

like

I started watching football to be able to relate to my Director. What things have you done to get a better relationship with your leadership?

likefunny

First 5 Min of watching “this is us” episode right now about the car - (first time ever watching it)...and I already feel emotional AF. Can’t watch it too sad

like

What are people’s salaries right out of college with their CPA?

like

Vanguard is out here doing the most...😂😂 There were actual love hearts in the body of the email...

Post Photo
likefunny

Anyone with experience working for Bridgewater Associates, LP? Had a recruiter reach out for a BA/PM role. Associate level/experienced hire, on portfolio transformation team.

How’s the whole experience? Comp package, benefits, work life balance, etc.

like

🐠, I was laid off from industry during covid and started consulting this year, which was a step back in terms of level and salary. I have received an offer that would allow me to course-correct and advance past where I was before. I like my current firm and have put a lot of effort into making it my new home; however I don’t like my project and am stuck on it. I am terrified of making a move so soon into a role that isn’t a fit or worse, results in another layoff. Appreciate all perspective!

like

What can I do outside the office to boost my resume and be a substantially more attractive candidate for top consulting firms in ~12 months time. Working in disputes and valuation role but want to go into management consulting next year (post MBA role). I feel like my job isn’t enough because skills aren’t considered as transferable outside this field.

like

When you check into the Westin and they say welcome home and you know that's weird but it's kind of soothing

like

Strategy& Path to Partner - S& fish, what’s the average age of a new partner - asking based on what you actually see, not a calculated number based on what a theoretical time at level is.

like

New to Fishbowl?

Download the Fishbowl app to
unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
That was just a preview…
Sign Up to see all discussions
  • Discover what it’s like to work at companies from real professionals
  • Get candid advice from people in your field in a safe space
  • Chat and network with other professionals in your field
Sign up in seconds to unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.

Already a user?
Login here

Share

Embed this post

Copy and paste embed code on your site

Preview

Download the
Fishbowl app

See what’s happening in your industry
from the palm of your hand.

A phone with Fishbowl app

Scan your QR code to download
Fishbowl app on your mobile

Download app

Sign up for free to view this conversation on Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Already have an account? Log in

Sign up for free to continue using Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use(New) and Privacy Policy(New)
Messaging rates may apply

Already have an account? Log in

For account settings, visit Fishbowl on Desktop Browser or

General

Legal