How to move up in your career

what it takes to climb the product ranks

Feb 19, 2025

Success in product management means building a career with purpose. The best product leaders have a North Star that guides their decisions, keeps them focused, and helps them grow in ways that matter.

Finding that direction isn’t always straightforward. Many PMs lean on their strengths—whether it’s technical expertise, market intuition, or execution speed—but sometimes, the very skills that make you great in one role can hold you back from stepping into the next. The best product leaders evolve. They recognize when to shift from problem-solver to strategist, from individual contributor to mentor, from executor to decision-maker.

For those earlier in their careers, the key is exposure—diving into different aspects of product work, learning from seasoned leaders, and seeking out recognition that amplifies their impact. One way to stand out? External validation. When others recognize your contributions, new doors open. The Product Manager Awards highlight PMs making a real difference. If you—or someone you know—are driving meaningful change in product, now’s the time to nominate.

Nominate a standout PM

Great careers don’t happen in isolation. If you know a product manager who’s making an impact, forward this their way. Recognition could be the next step in their journey.

Join Mighty Capital's Product Executive-in-Residence Program

The call is now open for Mighty Capital's Product Executive in Residence (PEiR) Program, a unique opportunity to collaborate with like-minded colleagues. Over several months, you'll be part of a tight-knit group of four professionals, each with a shared passion for innovation.

See the link below for responsibilities, expectations, and other details. PEIR is an incredible chance to share your insights, support budding startups, and make a lasting impact on the future of tech.

Join Mighty Capital's PEiR Program and help shape the next generation of groundbreaking products. Apply now and be a part of something extraordinary!

Calling all product visionaires

Check out our line-up of incredible speakers for the coming months, and stay ahead of the competition.

ON FEBRUARY 19, The Weather Network VP of Product Marketing on Essential Skills of a Product Manager. Register here.

ON MARCH 5, Trubrics CEO on Measuring the Impact of AI Products. RSVP today.

ON MARCH 19, Copper CPO on Crafting a Storyboard-Driven Product Vision. Reserve your seat.

ON MARCH 26, Checkr Sr. Product Director on The Future of PM as a GM in an AI-Driven World. Get your free ticket.

ON APRIL 23, Velocity Global Head of Product on Scaling Monetization Engines. RSVP today.

See All Our Upcoming Webinars

Each week, we publish videos, podcasts, and articles created by C/VP-level product leaders at some of the most innovative organizations, including Credit Karma, Microsoft, Etsy, and others.