[By: Korngo Afrakomaa Adjei-Djan]
In today’s fast-paced digital world, the tech industry is brimming with opportunities for young women eager to make their mark. Among the myriad of career paths, product management shines as a dynamic and fulfilling role. Yet, for women transitioning from non-technical backgrounds, the journey can feel daunting.
When I decided to pivot into product management from project management, I faced similar challenges. However, I quickly realised that the soft and technical skills I had honed while managing user-centred projects were incredibly transferable. By identifying these skills and leveraging my experience, I successfully navigated the switch—and you can too. If you’re looking to embark on this journey or feel ready to make the switch, here are a few steps I took—and adapted—that might inspire your own path.
Leverage Your Transferable Skills
The role of a product manager is unique, requiring a blend of skills across domains such as communication, problem-solving, leadership, and, importantly, project management. If you’re coming from a non-technical background, don’t let that deter you. Many of the skills you’ve already developed—whether in previous roles or simply by navigating challenges—are highly valuable in product management.
For instance, if you have experience in marketing, sales, or customer support, you likely excel at understanding customer needs, building relationships, and communicating effectively. These skills are essential for product managers, who serve as a bridge between customers and development teams. Similarly, experience in operations or administration often involves managing schedules, coordinating tasks, and prioritising resources—fundamental aspects of product management.
Build a Portfolio to Showcase Your Potential
A compelling portfolio is a powerful tool for demonstrating your potential as a product manager, even without direct experience. Start by highlighting projects or initiatives where you showcased leadership, organisation, or impact—whether through volunteer roles, university projects, or even hobbies.
To create a more targeted portfolio, consider developing case studies based on hypothetical product management scenarios. Look around you: identify a problem and explore practical solutions, or choose a product you use regularly and craft a plan to improve its features, user experience, or market strategy. Detail your thought process, research methods, and proposed steps for implementation. This not only showcases your analytical thinking but also your passion for the role.
Gain Relevant Experience Through Side Projects and Networking
Breaking into product management doesn’t always require landing a full-time role immediately. Explore opportunities to gain relevant experience through side projects. Volunteer for initiatives in your current organisation that involve collaboration or product development. Even if you’re not in a tech role, offering to assist with product research, user testing, or project management can provide valuable exposure.
Networking is another critical avenue. Join local or virtual meetups, forums, and communities focused on product management. Networking can lead to mentorships, collaborations, or even entry-level roles. Platforms like LinkedIn, Product School, and Women in Product are excellent resources for connecting with others and accessing tools to support your transition.
Invest in Continuous Learning and Certifications
Transitioning into tech requires understanding the basics of the industry and building new knowledge. Fortunately, numerous online courses and certifications are tailored to aspiring product managers. Platforms like Coursera, Google, and Product School offer comprehensive programs covering topics such as market research, product strategy, development, and UX design.
Certifications such as the Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO) are particularly valuable, teaching agile methodologies that are highly sought after in tech environments. These learning opportunities not only provide practical skills but also signal your commitment to growth to potential employers.
Find Mentors and Allies
Mentorship can be transformative in any career transition, especially in tech. Seek out mentors who are already thriving in product management and ask for their guidance. You can find mentors through networking events, social media, or within your organization. Many women in tech are eager to support others and can offer valuable insights into navigating the field.
Allies are equally important. Building relationships with colleagues, managers, and other stakeholders who champion your career shift can provide opportunities for growth, feedback, and visibility.
Embrace a Growth Mindset and Resilience
Breaking into tech, especially in a field often perceived as male-dominated, comes with its challenges. Cultivating a growth mindset is essential—embrace learning from failures, seek feedback, and continuously strive for improvement. Transitioning into product management requires grit, patience, and resilience, but the rewards are worth the effort.
Women from non-technical backgrounds bring a diversity of thought and perspective that is invaluable in product management. Recognize and leverage your unique strengths, build a foundation of relevant skills, and never hesitate to ask for opportunities you deserve.
