Pivoting Series: A Product Manager Guide To Self-assessment

How turning challenges into opportunities can lead to an outstanding annual self-assessment.

This is the first post of a series called Pivoting. This series will cover:

From setbacks to progress, from obstacles to opportunities: An unfiltered look into day-to-day product management’s challenges with behind-the-scenes stories, practical strategies, and insider tips.

*Note: I’m still thinking about the cadence of this articles. If you have suggestions or ideas feel free to reach out personally.

This exclusive post comes from:

https://www.productreleasenotes.com/p/you-need-to-value-yourself-more-a

Turning challenges into opportunities for great self-assessment

Let me share a personal experience that illustrates how this approach to self-assessment can work in practice.

Last year, I found myself in a situation that many would consider less than ideal. Two key features of our product were delayed, not launching until this year 2025. Moreover, I hadn't even been with this new client for a full year. On the surface, these circumstances might seem like setbacks.

However, I chose to evaluate myself with the highest score my company offers in performance evaluations. Here's why:

Looking Beyond Surface-Level Metrics

When I joined this new client, I encountered a product team facing numerous challenges:

• Unclear product vision and strategy

• A product portfolio that didn't meet company and user expectations

• Poor communication between team members and stakeholders

• An entirely new technology stack for developers

• Toxicity and poor leadership of agile figures

• Lack of stakeholder trust and high levels of skepticism

• No development cadence or best practices

• Low morale and lack of product mindset