Lenny Distilled

Execution Sense

Common Questions

I'm a product manager, but there are so many things that fall outside my core responsibilities. How can I best tackle all the work that needs to get done, even if it's not technically my job?

As a product manager, you're responsible for the overall success of the product, not just your specific tasks. Don't be afraid to take on work that may not be explicitly your job - in fact, that's often what separates successful PMs from the rest. Be willing to roll up your sleeves and do the hard work that others may avoid, as this will help drive your product forward and lead to your personal success.

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How can I ensure I get my product perfect before launching it?

Trying to get everything right before launching can delay your progress. Instead, focus on getting an initial version out quickly, even if it's not perfect. The more you ship, the more you'll learn about what your customers want and how to improve. Rapid recovery from mistakes is more valuable than perfection.

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How important are resources like funding, headcount, and executive support for a product team to be successful?

While resources can certainly help, the most important factor for a product team's success is resourcefulness - the ability to get creative and find ways to make things work, even with limited resources. The best product managers don't wait for perfect conditions, but instead take initiative and do whatever it takes to make progress, even if it means thinking outside the box or getting a little scrappy.

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How do I know when a project or product is truly complete and ready to ship? I often feel like I'm done, but then I find more things that need to be fixed or improved.

The last 5% of a project or product is often the most crucial, even though it may not seem like it. Rather than rushing to ship something that feels 99% done, take the time to meticulously address the small details that can make a big difference in quality and impact. Embracing this extra effort, even when it's tempting to call it "good enough," is what separates great products from mediocre ones.

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I want to create a new product, but I'm not sure where to start. Should I do a lot of upfront planning and research before taking any action?

Don't overthink it - just start taking action! Begin with a basic prototype or draft, even if it's not perfect. This will help you quickly gauge interest and get feedback, rather than getting stuck in endless planning. The key is to start building and see what happens, rather than waiting for the perfect plan.

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