The Correlation of MBA Degree and Becoming a Product Manager

People ask me whether an #MBA helps in a product management career.

Some thoughts:

1. Do you need an MBA to secure a PM position?
Most companies I know of don't put an MBA as a pre-requisite for product jobs.

2. Does an MBA help your chances of getting interviewed?
Well, if you're being led by Mark Cuban or Elon Musk who are vocal about their opposition, then your chances are slim.

In other cases, an MBA *can* push your resume up the queue only if the other candidates are without experience.

3. Does an MBA help in becoming a better PM?
Among other things, I've seen MBA grads have some skills that come in handy:
- Comfort with business metrics & financials
- Ability to keep the big picture in mind
- Confidence when talking with customers & leadership
+ a marketing major would also know of a variety of survey methods

4. So, should I do an MBA on my way to become a PM?
If you have your eyes set on being a PM, I wouldn't advise an expensive MBA degree. A few high-quality courses combined with apprenticeship would suffice. (that's just me)

Disclaimer: Given I don't have an MBA myself, my views might seem biased but I'm sharing this mostly as a hiring manager. I tend not to focus too much on degrees though.