In 2020, I took a hard look at my career. I had been a recruiter for years, dealing with HR’s challenges. But when the pandemic hit, many lost their jobs. I felt the need to act.
At first, it seemed impossible to move from HR to product management. Yet, I started giving free career advice through Calendly. This helped others and showed me a common problem—many were lost in the job market. What started as helping others turned into valuable research.
This experience sparked a new goal for me. I wanted to make a bigger difference. So, I decided to explore product management. My move from HR to this field was clear. It was driven by my wish for a more rewarding career.
Key Takeaways
- Career transitions can emerge from unexpected circumstances.
- User research can arise from everyday interactions.
- A desire for meaningful work can drive career shifts.
- Mentorship is key in exploring new fields.
- Embracing change opens doors to new opportunities.
Embracing Change: The Career Transition Interview Story
My journey into product management started in human resources. There, I faced many challenges in HR. I saw colleagues deal with sexism and burnout. This made me want to find a more fulfilling job that could make workplaces better.
In recruitment, I learned a lot about startup cultures. I talked to my CEO and manager about my dreams. They supported me as I aimed to start a new company within our organization.
Background and Initial Motivation
I wanted to make a change because of the problems I saw. I thought HR challenges could be turned into ways to better employee experiences. Talking openly made me sure product management was the right choice for me.
Identifying Challenges in HR
Seeing the HR challenges made me want to grow personally. My experience gave me a unique view of these issues. I knew I could make a difference by moving to product management.
Learning the Ropes of Product Management
Starting in product management is a big step. I learned a lot by getting new skills and knowledge. Reading books, articles, and taking online courses was key. Sites like Udemy and Coursera gave me great insights and frameworks.
Acquiring New Skills and Knowledge
I dove deep into learning about product management. I studied Agile and Scrum, which helped me understand it better. Using many educational resources helped me grasp concepts and solve real problems.
Building a Network and Seeking Mentorship
Networking was a big part of my transition. Talking to experienced product managers gave me a peek into their world. Getting mentors was a game-changer. They shared their wisdom and helped me grow faster.
Practical Experience Gained Within the Company
I asked for a part-time job in product development at my company. This gave me hands-on experience. Working on real projects improved my skills and let me apply what I learned.
Conclusion
My journey from HR to Product Management shows how important internal mobility is for a career. It’s not just about changing jobs. It’s about using your skills in new ways. I learned that being proactive and seeking help are key to success.
Working with different teams gave me insights that helped me grow. This new view was key to handling the new role’s challenges. The support I got through networking showed how important it is to build relationships in your company.
If you’re thinking about making a similar move, my story is a reminder. It’s about knowing what you want and always learning. By using internal mobility and the resources available, you can improve your career and seize new opportunities.
