How to become a product manager
There are several routes to becoming a product manager. There are no formal qualifications needed to become a product manager, although most employers will prefer candidates with a relevant qualification, such as an undergraduate or postgraduate degree.
There are also university short courses and Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) in relevant subjects as well as certification from professional bodies like the Market Research Society (MRS). Work experience in a relevant position is one of the most important factors in securing a role as a product manager.
You should explore these routes to become a product manager to find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions.
You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.
University
A degree is one of the most common routes to securing a job as a product manager. If the focus of the role is on construction product development, an employer will usually ask for a relevant construction degree, such as construction management.
If the focus is on product marketing then employers may ask for a marketing or market research qualification. Almost all employers would favour a candidate with a business-related degree or qualification, such as business management.
You will need 3 A levels (or equivalent) to do an undergraduate degree. Afterwards, you may be able to get a job on a company’s graduate trainee scheme.
Work
If you have some basic experience, you could apply directly to a construction or marketing company to gain experience as a junior product manager. Experience in project management, marketing or product design will be useful for a product manager role.
Work experience
Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry, and is particularly important for aspiring product managers. Recommendations from recruiters or people in mutual networks can often count for more than formal qualifications.
Product managers are experts in their product, so you should also try to use work experience as an opportunity to learn about the building, marketing and success of the types of products that interest you.
Internships, part-time jobs, work shadowing and volunteering in a sector that interests you are good ways of building the first-hand knowledge that a product manager needs. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.
Skills
Additional skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a product manager include:
- Excellent at persuasion and negotiation
- A strong and clear communicator
- To be flexible and open to change
- Decisive and able to support your decisions with research
- Ability to analyse complex data and identify market trends
- The ability to work well under pressure
- A good collaborator
- Knowledgeable about your product’s users and industry
- The ability to work well with others.
