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What does it take to be a great product manager? The good news is that there is a wealth of resources available to help you grow in product leadership. 

One of the most reliable sources of information is a well-researched book. Reading does not only improve your focus, but you can learn from some of the best product leaders. There are plenty of product management books out there, so we have compiled a list of the best to get you started. 

Crucial Conversations 

Kerry Patterson 

When you are a product leader, communication is critical, especially if you are dealing with offshore development teams. We thought Crucial conversations was well written and will teach you how to listen and effectively communicate in all areas of your life. It will help you navigate heated exchanges and conflict as a product manager without compromising your boundaries.

High Output Management 

Andrew S. Grove

This product management book is for product managers of all levels. It focuses on what is essential and what is not when it comes to product leadership. It will help you improve how you manage your product team and delegate tasks efficiently to improve output. 

The Making of a Manager

Julie Zhuo 

Julie Zhuo was the vice president of Facebook design and an inspiring female leader to follow. She believes that a great product manager is made, and her book offers ways to become one.

She focuses a lot on the challenging aspects of being a manager. For example, she covers improving outcomes, giving feedback, dealing with imposter syndrome, and investing in team building. 

Radical Candor 

Kim Scott

Radical Candor focuses on communicating effectively as a product manager, finding a balance between criticism and empathy. Kim Scott is also a successful leader and suggests practical ways to improve product team relationships. For example, earn essential product manager skills such as delivering productive criticism that focuses on the outcomes, not individual traits. 

The Five Dysfunctions of a Team

Patrick Lencioni

If you learn through stories, consider this product leadership fable. It focuses on the five core reasons even the best product teams can struggle and product leadership can fail. There are also solutions to understand the why of taking specific steps as a product leader. A lovely option for a quick read too!

Inspired 

Marty Cagan

Marty Cagan founded the Silicon Valley Product Group and offers invaluable insights for product managers. It covers many parts of product leadership that can take years to master without guidance. The book focuses on building a good product team, improving processes, scale organization, and strengthening product culture. 

Be the Best Product Manager 

Utilise resources such as product management books to improve your role as a product manager. No matter what stage of your career you are in, there are always ways you can improve your people management skills. These books are some of the best to help strengthen your product leadership, team building, and communication. You might be incredible at what you do but we all need a reminder and a bit of self-development from time to time! 

 

Consortia can solve your most demanding product management recruitment issues, including for product managers, product owners and product directors. Contact us today to learn how we can support you and your product team. Or equally, if you are looking for yourself, for product management jobs view our dedicated product manager roles page.

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