Is Product Management a good career path for a SDE?
Need some advise guys. I've been doing Software for some time. Been in all sorts of roles from SDE, SDET, Architect, VP etc over the years. Currently I am an SDE after being an Architect for 5-6 years. Main reason for switching to SDE is because I started missing the hands on coding work. Recently, had few interviews and got an offer for a Product Manager position with $400k+ TC. I am reaching my 40s. I also had a few FANG interviews within last few weeks for SDE positions which did not end up in an offer. But if I put enough effort prepping, I feel like I can get it. 1. Is product management an enjoyable role? They are looking for more technical leadership role. 2. Will I be like an Engineering Manager kinda role, which I am not a big fan of? 3. Is it possible and easy to move back to SDE role if I started hating this? 4. Am I just hitting my Mid-life crisis so just forget about changing jobs right now and continue my current SDE job? I am kind of in a confused state of mind right now without knowing what to do. Whether to keep leetcoding to get a FANG SDE job or take Product Manager job, get some experience and move to a FANG role later in PM line. Current TC: 180k
From 180 to 400, go for that then leetcode in that job then pick whichever path you prefer.
You’ve been VP but don’t know what a PMs job is like?
Honestly, no. I was a VP in a large non tech financial firm. So answer to your question is no. We didt have product manager roles. That's the reason to write this post. Thanks for the input thought
I bet it was a VP in charge of 3 people at a small startup or something similar.
Ok now. Be little respectful luv. As I said to the other guy above, I was a VP in a large financial firm. Not a tech company. So no clue how the product manager role plays out.
Now we know you are a female.. ;-) getting emotional and calling you luv. Btw nothing disrespectful in being a VP with 3 people. Maybe it is a new big bet initiative the VP is in charge of. Usually those projects are given to top performer...
What space is the PM role in? What is your educational background?
BSc Computer Science. The company is a good and restaurant related software.
Why didn’t you like being an EM? I would think being a PM is totally different if you aren’t managing people. EM is primarily a people management role in most companies. PM is an IC role unless you’re a group PM or higher.
I don't like the people management aspect of the EM role. That's the main reason I was trying to stick with a technical role. But I am not sure PM is technical enough.
You got an offer for PM at 400k and didn't take it?
Not yet. I have couple weeks to say yes or no