In our newest Success Stories blog post, we showcase Prince Garg, a dedicated Product Manager at OneClick. Join us as he narrates his journey, from initially working in a startup, then joining XLRI Executive Program in Product Management to steering products toward the B2C market.
Discover more about Prince’s career transition and the impactful strategies he employs in shaping product offerings.
Q1. Tell us about your current role and background.
Hi I’m Prince, currently serving as a Product Manager at OneClick. My primary responsibility is defining the product strategy and ensuring the alignment of our offerings with customer demands. While our focus has predominantly been on B2B products, we are expanding into the B2C market, venturing into the development of a SaaS product.
In my professional journey, I initially pursued my BTEC in 2017 and subsequently worked as a developer for six to seven months. I then ventured into entrepreneurship, founding a startup where I dedicated two years of my career. Transitioning into product management, I joined SGRG Core Solutions. Despite possessing valuable skills, I recognized the need for a more structured and practical approach to enhance my capabilities.
Looking ahead, my role involves not only understanding customer needs but also shaping our products to cater to the evolving market, particularly in the transition to B2C and the development of SaaS offerings. I am committed to refining my skills with a structured and pragmatic approach for continued growth and success.
Q2. What challenges did you face while exploring a Product Management role?
In the corporate realm, particularly in startups, the primary focus is on individual skills without delving much into a structured approach. However, when applying to more established entities like MSMEs, they expect a more structured approach.
These medium and enterprise-level companies seek a candidate with proficiency not only in skills but also in adhering to industry standards and adopting a perfect terminology.
In my reflection, I identified a gap in my understanding of these crucial elements, such as the structured approach, terminology, and a more sceptical approach to aspects like the go-to-market strategy.
Recognizing these areas for improvement, I aim to enhance my proficiency in a structured and industry-relevant manner to thrive in diverse corporate settings.
Q3. How has Product Management helped you in your new role?
The ongoing learning from the course has proven to be highly beneficial. The teaching methodology is commendable, focusing on essential elements like frameworks, structural approaches, and imparting crucial terminology for practical application in daily scenarios.
The insights gained, including the significance of mind mapping and understanding priorities, are immensely helpful in my role in product management.
Implementing these learnings has contributed to a more structured and sceptical approach, particularly in the strategies I devise. The positive impact is evident as our products continue to grow, garnering appreciation from both colleagues and managers.
I attribute this success to the valuable teachings received from the course and the collaborative effort within the team.
Q4. What was the interview experience at your current company?
I progressed through three rounds of interviews. They went like:
1. HR Round:
- Questions about current role and responsibilities.
2. Assignment Round:
- Given tasks related to creating lean canvas, business canvas, and prioritisation frameworks.
- Demonstrated application of learnings.
- Assignment positively received.
3. Technical Round:
- Topics covered: GRUB, SCRUM, defining sprints, problem-solving approach, defining success, pricing strategies.
- Application of course learnings and personal skills.
4. Selection Process:
- Successful completion of all rounds.
- Prompt confirmation of selection.
This structured approach helped secure the position, showcasing a blend of course knowledge and practical skills.
Q5. Why Accredian? How did it help you?
The course has significantly enhanced my grasp of terminologies and improved my ability to articulate strategies in a more structured, sceptical, and practical manner. The acquired frameworks empower me to execute tasks in a more appropriate and professional fashion.
Unlike the prior methodology, which lacked a lean approach, the current approach is more focused and attuned to both customer needs and industry expectations, aligning with my role as a product manager.
Q6. What advice would you give to Product Management beginners?
When applying for a product management role, emphasise being more sceptical and practical. During interviews, seek clarification on tasks, visualise requirements, and consider cross-coaching.
Prioritise acquiring terminology and adopting a structural approach to align your approach with company expectations and past experiences. Be authentic and maintain composure during interviews.
We hope you found this success story interesting. If you have any Product Management questions, please fill this form and we will get back to you.
