Leading with Impact

The distinction between traditional management and true leadership can significantly impact the success of your team and the products you develop.

Understanding the nuances of effective leadership is crucial for creating a thriving, innovative, and motivated team.

Some key principles of leadership and how you can apply them to your product management crew.

1. Credit Allocation: Taking vs. Giving

• Traditional Management: Takes credit for the work of the team. This behavior can demoralize team members and create a toxic work environment.
• Leadership: Gives credit where it’s due, recognizing the efforts of the team. This fosters a culture of appreciation and motivation.

Acknowledging your team's contributions can boost morale and encourage innovative thinking. Celebrate your team's successes and ensure they feel valued.

2. Instruction Method: Knowing vs. Showing

• Traditional Management: Knows how things are done but merely tells others what to do. This can leave team members feeling unsupported.
• Leadership: Shows how things are done, leading by example. This hands-on approach can inspire and empower the team.

Product managers who actively engage with their team, demonstrating tasks and guiding through challenges, build stronger, more confident teams.

3. Communication Style: Commanding vs. Asking

• Traditional Management: Commands, issuing orders without room for dialogue. This can stifle creativity and collaboration.
• Leadership: Asks, fostering open communication and collaboration. This encourages team members to share ideas and solutions.

Encourage an open-door policy where team members feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and suggestions. This can lead to more innovative and effective product solutions.