W hat PMs Want from Engineers
As I shared in this post, I recently read Inspired: How To Create Tech Products Customers Love by Marty Cagan.
The book shares tons of insight for new product managers, drawn from Cagan’s years of experience in product. I highly recommend it if you’re interested in PM work.
But as an engineer, I found something else valuable — a glimpse into what product managers actually need from us in day-to-day work.
While the book focuses on PMs, it indirectly teaches engineers how to make life easier for their PMs.
Here are a few key takeaways:
1. Give thoughtful feedback
When a PM shares a problem statement — usually via a PRD — they don’t just want agreement. They want us to think critically and challenge the idea when needed.
2. Speak up
Don’t be a “yes person.” PMs know engineers are often the smartest folks on the team. If you have concerns or suggestions, say something. Good communication matters.
I’ve talked more about that here.
3. Be confident
When a PM asks a question, it’s because they want to understand — not test you. So just answer it calmly and clearly. No need to stress.
I hope we can all build better relationships with our PMs — and build better products together.
This article is part of the 30 Day Writing Challenge. I’m pushing myself to write whatever comes to mind, every day.