Moving from product management to people management is a big shift, a real change in how you measure success. Where you used to be the architect of product wins, you’re now the architect of your team’s growth. This calls for a change from being the “answer key” to being more of a coach.
Guiding, Not Dictating
As a product manager, you were the go-to for solutions. Now, your role is to help your team find their own. Instead of saying, “Here’s how I’d do it,” try, “Walk me through your thinking. Where are you stuck?” According to a study by Gallup, employees who feel their manager helps them develop are 3.6 times more likely to be engaged. This simple question empowers your team to think critically and take ownership.
Building a Team That Runs Itself
True leadership is about creating a team that thrives on its own. Redefine your impact by focusing on making the team function without you. Think clear communication and solid processes. A study by Harvard Business Review found that teams with strong autonomy demonstrate 20-25% higher productivity. Your success is measured by their ability to succeed independently.
Focus on People, Not Just Products
Product wins are great, but people wins are better. As a people manager, your focus shifts to growing your team. Create an environment where they can take risks and learn. Did you know that companies with engaged employees see 21% higher profitability? Celebrate their growth, not just the product’s milestones.
Letting Them Learn From Mistakes
Fear of failure kills innovation. Let your team experiment, even if they stumble. By letting them navigate challenges, you help them expand their strategic thinking. Research from Stanford shows that a “growth mindset,” which embraces failure as learning, leads to greater innovation and resilience. Failure becomes a learning curve, not a dead end.
The Bottom Line
The transition from product manager to people manager is a shift in mindset. It’s about empowering your team to become independent thinkers and problem solvers. By embracing this change, you create a team that not only achieves product wins but also fosters a culture of growth and innovation. Your legacy will be the people you helped grow.