Start / Building Better Games / E51 how to spot a great product manager with paul gebel

E51 How to Spot a Great Product Manager with Paul Gebel

44 min • 5 december 2023

Paul Gebel, a product leader with over 20 years of experience, joins Aaron and Ben to discuss the importance of product management in game development. They explore the difference between good and bad product managers, the challenges of the role, and the impact a great product manager can have on a team. They also touch on the need for empathy, communication, and a focus on value in product management. The conversation highlights the value of understanding the user and the importance of balancing operational tasks with strategic thinking.

Key Takeaways:

Product management is about understanding the user, solving their problems, and delivering value.
Product managers should focus on the bigger picture and not just operational tasks.
Saying "no" is an important skill for product managers to prioritize and make trade-offs.
The role of product managers is to bridge the gap between different teams and ensure alignment towards a common goal.
Product management requires curiosity, empathy, and the ability to navigate ambiguity.