Mastering the Three Types of Product Managers: Which One Are You?

Product management is a vital role in creating successful products that meet the needs of customers and drive business growth. Whether you're just starting your career or looking to switch things up, it's essential to understand the different types of product managers. Whether you're navigating the complexities of integrating internal systems, innovating in a competitive SaaS market, or managing products for millions of users, each type of product manager presents distinct challenges and exciting opportunities. In this blog, we'll explore the three types of product managers you need to know about, and what it takes to excel in each role.

• Internal Product Managers

1. Internal PMs work within a company to develop products that integrate with other systems within the same organization.
2. They are often an excellent introductory role in product management, as they involve project management skills and less risk due to a smaller number of users.
3. Internal PMs may have a range of responsibilities, including defining product requirements, coordinating with cross-functional teams, and ensuring that products meet the organization's goals and objectives.
4. They must have excellent communication skills to ensure that the products they develop align with the company's vision and mission. 
5. Internal PMs may also have to manage timelines and budgets, making sure that their products are delivered on time and within budget. 

• Software As a Service (SaaS) Product Managers

1. SaaS PMs are responsible for managing software products that are delivered over the internet and are often subscription-based. 
2. They have a small number of users compared to B2C PMs but must be flexible and creative in their approach to the product. 
3. Priorities are often weighed by money, and there are tight deadlines to meet. SaaS PMs must be aware that they are one of very few platforms and must continuously innovate to stay ahead of the competition. 
4. They must have a deep understanding of the market and their users to identify the most critical features to develop and prioritise. 
5. SaaS PMs must have strong problem-solving skills, as they may face technical issues and bugs that need to be resolved quickly to ensure customer satisfaction. 

• Business to Consumer (B2C) Product Managers

1. B2C PMs are responsible for managing products for millions of users across multiple platforms. 
2. This type of PM requires extensive user testing and the ability to handle uncertainty and pressure, as the market can be unpredictable, and there is a lot of competition. 
3. They must be skilled at managing budgets and timelines, as B2C products often have high development costs and are expected to deliver results quickly.
4. B2C PMs must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work with cross-functional teams, understand user feedback, and prioritise features. 
5. They must also be aware that they can lose company money if the product is not well-received, making it essential to monitor the market, competitors, and user feedback continuously. 

Conclusion: 

In conclusion, the role of a product manager can vary significantly depending on the type of products they are managing. Understanding the differences between Internal PMs, SaaS PMs, and B2C PMs is crucial for choosing the right career path and developing the skills required to excel in the role.