Want to Be an AI Product Manager? Here's How to Get Started

With artificial intelligence exploding, AI product manager is one of the hottest new roles out there. But how do you get your foot in the door in this competitive field, especially if your background isn't in computer science? The good news is there are things you can do to set yourself up for success. In this article, we'll walk through the steps to become an AI product manager even if you don't have a technical background. You'll learn the must-have skills, how to get the right experience, and tips for standing out and landing an AI PM role. We'll also look at the day-to-day work so you can decide if it's really the right career path for you. Let's dive in!

What Is an AI Product Manager?

As an AI product manager, you'll be responsible for developing and managing AI products. Basically, you'll determine what features and functionality an AI system needs to achieve its goals, create schedules and roadmaps, and work with data scientists and engineers to make it all happen.

It's a role that requires a unique blend of skills. You'll need:

1. A technical background. You don't have to be an expert in AI, but you need to understand the basics of how technologies like machine learning and natural language processing work.
2. Product management chops. You should know how to analyze the market, identify opportunities, define product requirements, and build business cases. Strong organizational and communication abilities are a must.
3. Creativity. Coming up with innovative ways to apply AI will be a big part of the job. You have to think outside the box about how AI can solve problems and improve experiences.
4. Adaptability. AI is evolving rapidly. You'll need to keep up with the latest tools, techniques, and algorithms so you can determine how to best integrate them into your products.

Also Read: The Wild Ride: Challenges in AI Product Management

If you have a combination of these skills, consider pursuing a role as an AI product manager. Many tech companies are hiring now as they build out their AI capabilities. An AI product management position is challenging but rewarding work that puts you on the cutting edge of technology. With some experience under your belt, it can also be very lucrative. If you want to help shape the future of AI, this could be the career for you!

To learn more about AI product management, read our article on: AI Product Management 101: What You Need to Know

Skills Needed to Become an AI Product Manager

To land a job as an AI product manager, you'll need a blend of technical and business skills. AI is a fast-growing field, so continuous learning is a must. Some key skills include:

Proficiency in AI techniques

Proficiency in AI techniques like machine learning, neural networks, computer vision, and natural language processing. You don't need to be an expert, but you should understand the basics and how companies are applying AI technologies.

Identify AI Opportunities

The ability to evaluate AI opportunities and solutions. You need to determine if AI can solve a business problem or create value, assess AI vendors and technologies, and evaluate AI pilot programs and prototypes.

Strong Communication Skills

AI product managers must explain complex AI concepts to non-technical stakeholders, share the business value of AI initiatives, and translate between technical and business teams.

Data analysis and management expertise

AI systems require massive amounts of data, so you need to source, evaluate, and manage data to train and improve AI models. Data visualization and storytelling skills are also important.

An agile and growth mindset

AI is constantly evolving, so you must adapt quickly to changes, learn new skills, and re-evaluate how AI can benefit your company and users.

AI product managers play a key role in helping companies realize the potential of AI. If you're tech-savvy, data-driven, a quick learner, and able to bridge technical and business needs, then becoming an AI product manager could be an exciting and rewarding career path for you. The opportunities in this field are growing every day.

How to Get Started as an AI Product Manager

To launch your career as an AI product manager, here are some key steps to take:

Focus on building technical skills

Take online courses or pursue a certification in AI, machine learning, natural language processing, and data analysis. These skills will help you better understand AI systems and communicate with data scientists. You should also learn key PM tools like product development frameworks, design thinking techniques, and data visualization software.

Gain relevant experience

Consider interning or volunteering at an AI startup to gain experience. You can also work with AI technologies at your current job or build an AI side project to help round out your experience. Some companies may require 3-5 years of product management experience before becoming an AI PM.

Network

Connect with people currently in AI product management roles. Ask them questions about their jobs and career paths. See if they have opportunities to mentor you or if their companies are hiring. You can also join professional organizations focused on AI, product management, and technology to make valuable connections.

Keep learning

The field of AI is constantly evolving, so you need to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies, tools, and product management techniques. Subscribe to newsletters, take additional courses, and read books on AI, machine learning, and product management. Continual learning will make you a better candidate and help you excel in your role.

With the right skills, experience, networking, and lifelong learning, you can successfully land an AI product management role. The key is starting now to build up your knowledge and experience so you'll be ready when the perfect opportunity arises. Keep putting in the effort and your dream job can be within reach.

To explore the courses available for diving into AI Product Management, read our article on: Top AI Product Management Courses for 2024

Conclusion

So there you have it! AI product management is an exciting new field for those looking to leverage their technical know-how and passion for innovation. Getting started does require dedication and hard work - learning the foundations, gaining relevant experience, and building a network. But for those willing to put in the effort, the career opportunities are tremendous. Just imagine someday leading the charge on cutting-edge AI projects that improve people's lives. The future is yours to shape if you have the drive to skill up and get out there. We're rooting for you! Now go unleash your inner AI PM superstar.

Further Read:
Product Management with AI: Crafting a Future-Proof Product Strategy‍

All Product Managers to Become AI Product Managers?