Not all Product Managers need to know how to code. However, every PM must understand how to collaborate with Engineers. However, all PMs should be aware of basic tech functionality, like what will happen when you enter a keyword in the browser and press enter, API, how the data is being stored, etc.

Here are 9 principles I follow to have a better PM-Eng relationship!

✅ Explain the WHY, and let them explore the HOW

You can always help and participate in defining the HOW... just make sure you listen 10x more than you speak.

✅ Bring in engineers from the beginning, not when "you need them."

Invite the Eng team early on to talk with product owners and work on the Strategy with you. They will be the experts on 'HOW' we are building a product and whether it is feasible.

Engineers are collaborators, not "resources."

✅ Be clear on what to build and what NOT to build

Ascertain that everyone understands what is and is not within the scope of the project. Clarity about the team's direction is essential for a successful collaboration.

It will take more time to determine what is out of scope, but it will result in greater clarity with the team and, as a result, a better partnership.

✅ Build an inclusive culture

It is not about you (PM) versus them (ENG) to solve the problem when developing products and features. It is about everyone working together to achieve the same goal.

Remove any artificial barriers, but keep ownership lines clear.

✅ Build relationships early on

Use your first 90 days, especially if you are new to the team, to get to know your teammates, listen to them, and understand them.

Successful product managers establish a strong and sympathetic relationship with engineering.

✅ Be open to new ideas

Request ideas from the engineering team and take the time to explain key decisions in detail. You never know, your best product ideas might come from the engineering team, who are intimately familiar with the product.

Also, no one likes it when the PM comes around to boss people around.

✅ Continue to refine your relationship.

When you first started at the company, you probably had 1:1s with each engineer on the team... and now you probably don't.

You can continue to meet with your engineering team on a one-on-one basis to learn about what they are working on, what they are interested in, and any product ideas they have.

✅ Above everything else... respect them

Engineers may have different viewpoints. Respect them and understand where they're coming from. The stronger your relationship with them, the better your product will be.

Don't forget to include them in your product decisions and execution.

✅ Make sure you value them and that they see value in you

You are NOT the product's CEO. Don't act like you're in charge of anyone. The eng team should recognise you as a team player who is there to assist them rather than to give orders.

Contribute to their goals and make sure they understand your value in the team... besides scheduling meetings.

💎 What else do you recommend PMs should do when working with engineers?