PM Career 101: The Essentials
The Getting Started Package helps you understand the PM role, key skills, and the interview process - and identify which areas you need to focus on. Is Product Management Right for You? - We'll start by defining what a PM does day to day, what skill sets are most important, and how the role varies across companies - so you can decide if it’s the right fit for you. What It Takes to Succeed - We'll cover what hiring managers really look for, how to stand out (even without a technical or Ivy League background), and the mindset shifts that drive long-term success in PM. How to Nail the PM Interview Process - We’ll go through: Resume & LinkedIn Review; How to identify, network, and go after the right opportunities; What to expect in the different type of interviews - including behavioral, product sense, analytics, and execution
What's included
- Understand the PM Role - Gain clarity on what product managers actually do, how the role varies across companies, and whether it aligns with your strengths and interests.
- Identify your top focus area (e.g., resume, networking, or interview prep) and walk away with concrete action items tailored to your goals and background.
Meet your expert
Jay L.
Land Your Dream PM Job! | PM & PM Manager @ Meta & MSFT | Ex SWE & Founder
I’m a seasoned product leader and coach with 15 years in tech - 10 of those as a Product Manager at Microsoft, where I built and scaled enterprise and platform products used by millions. I’ve led products across a wide range of technologies, including infrastructure, developer experience, security, and Identity & Access Management, and have driven multiple 0-to-1 initiatives - both within Microsoft and as a founder. Beyond big tech, I co-founded and served as CEO of a direct-to-consumer e-commerce brand, which I scaled from the ground up into a multi-million-dollar business with a 20+ person global team. The company earned a spot on the Inc. 5000 list of the Fastest-Growing Private Companies multiple times. I also serve as a board member for a nonprofit supporting students in the Greater Seattle area through coaching and mentoring. As a PM coach, I’ve helped over 60 aspiring and advancing product managers - from recent graduates and career switchers to experienced PMs targeting MAANG-level roles. My coaching is grounded in hands-on experience: I’ve been a hiring manager and part of hiring committees, conducted 100+ interviews, mentored PMs within big tech, and coached students breaking into their first product role. I’ve also built and led high-performing teams from the ground up. Whether you're looking to craft a compelling story, break into product, or take the next step in your career, I’ll help you gain clarity, build confidence, and move forward with purpose.
