Why Great Product Managers Never Argue

Lessons In Product Management

1. Great PMs are like sponges, they soak in info from anywhere
2. We can’t assume we’re always right, we don’t have all information, and the info we have is not always perfect or correct
3. We need allies - we can’t ship successful products on our own

However:

1. We should have an opinion - we just don’t always have to express it in an argumentative fashion
2. This doesn’t mean we say yes to everything - we can’t be order takers
3. So, if we can’t say yes, then how do we say no… we don’t - the best way to not say yes is to ask questions
   1. Ask for clarification
   2. Ask for context
   3. Ask for data

It’s pointless to argue as a product manager. We have zero power, and we need allies across our company in order for our team’s work to be successful.

Next time you get tempted to argue, remember those six tips:

1. Always accept and encourage feedback and counter-opinions
2. Never assume you’re always correct - we rarely are
3. You need allies, so don’t alienate them
4. You should have an opinion but be tactful in expressing it
5. Don’t say yes to everything
6. But don’t say no to anything. Use questions to put the ball back in the court of the requestor

I hope these tips are helpful as you go about your week, and I’ll see you next week for another lesson in product management.

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