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
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