I’m starting to think about moves into other roles, perhaps a Product Manager role. And no, I definitely do NOT want to continue at Microsoft. How can I successfully apply to other companies in order to get PM interviews? TC 260 4YOE as a SWE 3YOE other random jobs Econ and CS degrees
The easiest way to switch the role is to do so internally within the company. Then, you can jump ship in a year or two.
Elaborate on your random jobs. Will help us see if you can apply to PM directly in other companies or would be better internally first.
I definitely don’t want to apply internally since I am very ready to leave Microsoft. I’m interviewing for SWE roles but I’m also considering roles in Product Management and Partner Eng, and would be interested to hear if there are others that may be a fit.
Sounds like leaving Microsoft is top on your list. Hence, take swe job at a fang then change internally after a couple years to PM.
I tried getting a PM interview this year. It's spectacularly difficult as an outside candidate. Try startups, I hear they're willing to hire people for a lateral shift
How did you apply?
Microsoft PM roles are good for junior product management on the job training since microsoft has good mentors and large enough to make mistakes still not get fired or for TPM roles on project management side. If you get to Senior PM role in microsoft then you can survive Product Management roles outside. Getting hired into product management roles outside directly is very hard unless you go get a full time MBA or did a startup. Best path is move to be a PM in microsoft spend 2-3 learning the role and then move outside to PM roles. TPM and EPM roles are heavy on project management that is hard to love unless you are into it. It's not product management.
PM jobs are super boring - are you sure you want to do that?
Get MBA
Yea a switch from SWE to TPM is pretty much possible as long as you can show coordination, analysis and presentation skills. Try amazon, many do it.
Is TPM a technical product manager?
@op yes