Think like a CEO — with what authority?
A hiring manager wanted a Product Manager who thinks like a CEO. I asked whether they would give them CEO-level authority. The silence was the answer.
Recently, during a hiring conversation, a manager told me: “We need a Product Manager who thinks like a CEO, Owner of the Product.”
I replied: “Okay, but are you going to give them CEO-level authority to make real decisions?”
No answer.
That was the problem. I have been through this a couple of times.
Both hiring managers/recruiters and CEOs often do not clearly differentiate the lines between Project Management and Product Management. And the worst part starts when companies begin micromanaging Product Managers, who are supposed to think and act like CEOs owning the product.
At that point, 3 important questions arise, that leaders have to think about: - Do they trust their employees? - Do they trust their own authority? - Is there trust within the team at all?
Without trust, Product Management turns into task coordination instead of product ownership.
Product Managers are hired to help companies grow, succeed, and build strong long-term collaborations. When the company succeeds, it becomes our victory too, which is why strong Product Managers are naturally motivated to create the best possible outcomes for the business.
*Btw, my favorite Product Management Portal is in the screenshot: https://productbeats.com/