Why Product Managers Should Have Opinions

As an experienced product leader, I strongly believe that having strong opinions is key to success. This blog explores eight reasons why strong opinions are crucial for product managers, using real-world examples to back up each point. From building thought leadership to driving innovation and managing uncertainty, expressing well-informed opinions helps product managers establish credibility, make better decisions, and lead their teams effectively.

Building Thought Leadership

Consistently expressing well-informed opinions builds trust and credibility among stakeholders, establishing product managers as knowledgeable leaders and experts.

Example:
Sam Altman's views on the power and risks of AI have helped him stand out as a thought leader in the space.

Enable Effective Stakeholder Management

Strong opinions are critical to making discussions meaningful. Only meaningful discussions can enable product managers to effectively engage, inspire, and align stakeholders on the direction and the roadmap.

Example:

Satya Nadella's strong opinion on the importance of adopting open-source technologies led to a significant cultural shift within the company. That has led to Microsoft collaborating with the open-source community and driving success in cloud computing with Azure.

Lead Out-of-the-Box and Innovative Thinking

Great product managers are known to challenge the status quo and lead innovation within product teams. That is only possible because of having clear and strong opinions.

Example:
Reed Hastings, the CEO of Netflix, firmly believed that the future of entertainment was streaming. His belief has transformed Netflix from a DVD rental service into the world's largest online streaming platform, forever changing how we consume media.

Demonstrating Knowledge and Awareness

Opinions showcase a product manager's depth of knowledge and awareness of the product, customers, market, and business, positioning them as the most trusted source of knowledge. This expertise fosters respect and credibility among colleagues and stakeholders.

Example:

Mary Meeker, a renowned venture capitalist and former partner at Kleiner Perkins, gained recognition as a thought leader in internet trends. Through her influential annual "Internet Trends" reports, Meeker shares opinions backed by extensive research. Her expertise and insights have established her as an authority in the industry.

Inspiring Decision-Making in Uncertainty

When there is no apparent clear path forward, product managers' opinions offer fresh perspectives and alternative options for consideration. Their informed viewpoints help people navigate ambiguity and make informed decisions, guiding the team toward the best possible outcomes.

Example:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, product managers at Zoom believed in adapting Zoom to serve professional meetings and various social and recreational purposes. This opinion inspired the team to expand the platform's capabilities, introducing features like virtual backgrounds, breakout rooms, and interactive games. As a result, Zoom is the go-to platform for virtual gatherings, family reunions, online parties, and even virtual weddings.

Encouraging Professional Growth and Success

Developing and expressing opinions requires extensive research, continuous learning, and a deep understanding of the industry. Product managers set themselves up for long-term professional growth by investing in building knowledge and awareness.

Example:

Product managers who have gathered expertise, knowledge, and awareness about their niche grow rapidly in their careers.

Drive Product Iteration and Improvement

Having strong opinions also forces product managers to be highly critical of their views. This makes product managers continuously identify areas for improvement.

Example:

Sundar Pichai strongly believed in the importance of machine learning and artificial intelligence. This opinion has pushed Google to incorporate AI technologies into various products (like the new search experience and Bard).

Differentiate in a Competitive Landscape

Having unique and distinct opinions helps products stand out in a competitive market by challenging industry norms. If done well, this helps capture customers' attention and loyalty.

Example:

Slack entered a market dominated by traditional email and messaging tools. By having a clear opinion of the drawbacks of existing solutions, Slack created a differentiated product that revolutionized work communication.

Wrapping Up! 

Being a product manager means more than just managing projects; it’s about making bold decisions, challenging the status quo, and leading teams through tough choices. Strong opinions are the foundation of this leadership. 

Whether it’s inspiring innovation, driving product improvements, or navigating ambiguity, having a clear, informed perspective sets the best product managers apart from the rest.