Learn from the Experts and Specialists

Imagine an accomplished pilot with a plane but with no access to guidance systems, GPS and no prior knowledge of the skies.

A pilot in such a situation wouldn't be that useful for anyone trying to get to a destination. Unless you plan to fly in circles.

Similarly, knowing product management tools & frameworks are great but really become useful when you have a deep understanding of the domain you're working in.

Sure you can navigate JIRA, sketch out wireframes and chalk up specs just fine.

But the magic is in the user research and niceties of the subject matter.

For example, if the product is a real estate CRM, knowing how about the various players in the market, local laws, involved paperwork, transaction process, fees & government regulations is crucial to building a potent solution.

When taking up a new PM job, invest time in learning from industry experts.

If they aren't present in your company already, look for external specialists.

It might seem challenging to get industry experts to give you time but if you position yourself as seeking their "valuable" advice, many will oblige.

At times, that little insider info or the right contact can prove to be a competitive differentiator.