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Mentee Question

Asked by Salmankhan M A

I am teacher who is working in an edtech, I want to transition into PM, What should be my step by step approach towards the same ?

Mentors Answer

Answered By Mentor Pallavi Sinha

Hi Salman,


Can you give a little more information about the nature of your job, subjects you teach, your educational background and if you've any experience with the business activities of the organization ?


There can be multiple ways to break into PM, from a developer to PM, designer to PM etc. However, while we try to break into a PM from any other roles apart from these, it becomes imperative to focus on skills that can be applicable to Product management and most importantly, drawing those parallels in your resume.

Since this question asks for a step by step approach , I'd say:

  1. Start analyzing if your current role involves working with data, does it deal with any users / has a focus on users, business operations etc.
  2. Try to gather as much knowledge and expertise as you can in the ed-tech industry : This means that if you understand the industry, you can be an effective PM in very less time
  3. Be on the lookout where product teams in your organization can use your help, you can make a smooth slide into the role by just helping when there was a gap
  4. Last but not the least, curate your resume strategically and keep applying to companies

I hope this helps !


Answered By Mentor Arpit Jain

Transitioning from a teaching role in an educational technology (edtech) company to a product management role is a plausible and valuable shift. Your experience in education and edtech can provide a unique perspective that's highly beneficial in the product management domain. Here's a step-by-step approach to help guide your transition:

Understand the Product Management Role:

  • Research and thoroughly understand the responsibilities, skills, and key concepts of product management. Familiarize yourself with the product development life cycle, agile methodologies, and common tools used in product management.

Identify Transferable Skills:

  • Leverage the skills gained from your teaching experience, such as understanding learner needs, curriculum development, problem-solving, communication, and project management.

Learn Product Management Fundamentals:

  • Enroll in online courses, workshops, or certifications focused on product management essentials. Look for courses covering product strategy, user research, product development methodologies (like Agile/Scrum), and product roadmapping.

Network with Product Managers:

  • Reach out to product managers in your edtech company or attend industry events and webinars. Engage in discussions, seek advice, and gain insights into their experiences and the skills required in product management.

Volunteer for Product-Related Initiatives:

  • Express your interest in contributing to product-related projects within your current organization. Offer to assist with user research, gathering feedback, or creating product-related content.

Build a Portfolio:

  • Create a portfolio showcasing your understanding of product management concepts and how your teaching experience can translate into valuable contributions to product development. Include any relevant projects or initiatives you've been a part of.

Acquire Basic Technical Knowledge:

  • Familiarize yourself with technical concepts and industry-specific technologies related to edtech. While not mandatory, having a basic understanding will enhance your ability to collaborate effectively with development teams.

Seek Mentorship:

  • Find a mentor in the product management field, preferably within your edtech company or industry. A mentor can provide valuable guidance, share experiences, and help you navigate your transition.

Apply for Product-Related Roles:

  • Look for internal opportunities within your edtech company to transition into product-related roles, such as associate product manager or product coordinator. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experiences and skills.

Prepare for Product Management Interviews:

  • Practice answering common product management interview questions. Prepare examples from your teaching experience that demonstrate your ability to manage projects, understand user needs, and collaborate with teams.

Stay Updated and Engaged:

  • Continuously engage with the product management community. Follow thought leaders, participate in discussions, and stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in product management.

Be Persistent and Adaptable:

  • Understand that transitioning into product management might take time and effort. Stay persistent, remain adaptable, and continue developing your skills and knowledge.

Leverage your teaching experience and passion for education as strengths in your transition into product management. Your understanding of learners' needs and effective communication skills can significantly contribute to the success of edtech products.


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