February 9, 2024
What does it take to lead high-performing product teams? In this episode of the Product Leaders to Watch Series with Cognizant Product Director Chenny Solaiyappan, Flare Senior PM Charlie Whicher speaks on her background transitioning from academia to product management. They discuss what makes Charlie a great product leader to watch, including her data-driven approach and ability to lead high-performing teams. Charlie also shares her views on what makes a great product and a great product manager.
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Show Notes
- Charlie has a non-traditional background in academia and biology/life sciences.
- She leverages her understanding of data and user insights in her product work.
- Charlie enjoys the teamwork aspect of product management compared to individual work in academia.
- She has experience at startups of varying sizes.
- Charlie is excited by innovative startup ideas and products across industries.
- AI and life sciences/healthcare are trends she’s interested in.
- A great product solves real problems for users.
- It fundamentally solves pain points rather than superficially helping.
- The problem being solved needs to be genuine, not artificially created.
- Curiosity is important for product managers to understand problems.
- Empathy for users and colleagues is key.
- Active listening is crucial for understanding without biases.
- Startups should submit honest, colorful applications to the AAB.
- Listeners should keep an eye out for exciting 2024 products.
- Data-driven decisions are important to Charlie.
- She enjoys diverse startup experiences.
- Understanding technologies and user insights shapes her work.
- Leading high-performing teams is an important skill.
- Effective communication and collaboration are part of her leadership style.