PM looking to expand skillset.

Question

Hi all,

Currently a rising junior in college. Going to be working as a PM intern for a large, public tech company (not MAANG) this summer.

For example, should I be learning SQL, Figma, Tableau, etc. or focusing on learning computer science (Python, Data Structures, Algorithms, etc.)?

I'm not sure if I should be looking to expand my current skillset (non-technical) into computer science or learning 'PM skills' in general.

Any guidance/help is appreciated. Thanks.

Doowuu9 · Accepted Answer

PM can look different at different companies so in my experience, make notes on what you like/don’t like in the program so you can tailor your job search. Sometimes companies call product owners PMs and while technically that’s true, the day2day is totally different. POs deal with the backlogs versus PMs who focus on discovery. Just depends on your interests

Mysterio · Answer

A general understanding of the tech related to the product is generally sufficient, unless you are the PM on a highly technical product. When I interview/hire PMs, I’m looking for people who know how to quickly generate insights from customers, and the translate those insights into potential features. People who know how to learn fast, and translate their learning into a clear path forward. That’s the x-factor that separates a good PM from a great PM.

3JaiO12mcanN · Answer

PMs need to have great people skills! If you don't have a high EQ, you're going to struggle managing the people part of the job. As many PMs here will tell you, you spend a lot of time in meetings, chasing people around for work, finding and removing blockers, haggling for resources, etc. I think the technical training is readily available. Trust isn't so easily attainable

K918cweP · Answer

I dont think it ever hurts to learn more about the technologies your company uses. In larger companies, it's difficult to get buy-in from engineering teams if you don't have the knowledge to push back on ideas they may have or question their logic. I dont think you need to be an expert, just a solid foundation to have educated and engaging conveersations about solutions and roadmap

RememberDTyme99 · Answer

Do you know what team you’re working on yet? When I did an internship last year, I was thinking the same going in and best advice I got was “take it as it comes”.If you can connect with the team before hand and can build a good rapport with the recruiter/internship program manager who brought you in, always ask for intros or recommendations. Sometimes there are new grads they can connect you to as well, especially if they’ve been through the program!

PM looking to expand skillset.

About

Product Manager

Members