Meet Teodora, a content marketing manager turned product manager at Progress, Ralitsa, a former technical support specialist now excelling as a product owner, and Chavdar, an architect who transitioned to a product owner role in the software industry. All graduates of Telerik Academy's Upskill Product Management program share their experiences and how the program has transformed their careers. With diverse backgrounds and a commitment to continuous learning, their stories provide valuable insights into the benefits of upskilling and entering the dynamic field of product management.
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Teodora, or Tedi, worked in a Bulgarian technology company for the past two years, developing an app. Her role was primarily in content marketing management, where she held a managerial position for the last 4-5 years. Despite her success, Tedi began to feel exhausted and sought a new challenge. She realized that becoming a product manager could help her address the problems and barriers she was encountering in her role. Tedi's decision to transition was driven by her desire to see the big picture and engage with diverse aspects of business operations.
Pursuing Product Management
Last year, Tedi set a goal to switch to a product management position within 6-8 months. She sought out specific courses to improve her skills and found herself at the Telerik Academy. The practical work during the program was instrumental for her, allowing her to apply theoretical knowledge and understand the real-world dynamics of product management. Working with a diverse team helped her develop the ability to quickly find common ground with new colleagues, a crucial skill for any product manager.
Post-Graduation Success
After completing the course, Tedi began applying for positions and secured a junior role at Progress. She now proudly manages her own product, a testament to her determination and the effectiveness of the training she received.
Ralitsa, or Rali, spent over eight years in customer support, with the last few years focused on technical support. In 2018, seeking a new challenge, she joined her company’s product team. Without formal training, she had to learn on the job, attending meetings, reading relevant materials, and familiarizing herself with product management concepts. This experience highlighted the importance of understanding both the technical and business aspects of product management.
Embracing Product Management
Ralitsa’s journey led her to the Telerik Academy, where she was drawn to the practical focus of the program. She appreciated the diverse perspectives offered by different lecturers, each bringing unique experiences from high positions in major companies. This exposure helped her gain confidence in handling product management tasks, from stakeholder management to customer interviews.
Applying New Skills
Ralitsa’s newfound skills and confidence allowed her to advocate for the importance of product interviews in her company, despite initial resistance. She continues to push forward, driven by a passion for learning and improving her product management capabilities.
Chavdar's Background
Chavdar was an architect and property evaluator for almost 20 years, designing everything from high-rise buildings to compost toilets. Seeking a new challenge, he decided to explore UX/UI design and product management. Despite having no prior experience in software, he joined the Telerik Academy to gain practical knowledge and skills.
Transitioning to Product Management
During the course, Chavdar started working as a BIM architect in a small software company. He expressed his desire to move into product management and was soon given the opportunity to take on a product owner role. His background in architecture provided a unique perspective, and his commitment to learning and adapting helped him succeed in his new position.
Overcoming Challenges
Chavdar’s journey highlights the importance of persistence and willingness to start at an intermediate level if necessary. His experience in the Telerik Academy, coupled with the support from lecturers and peers, played a crucial role in his transition to a product management role.
Teodora's Perspective
Teodora emphasizes the value of practical work and team collaboration. She believes that working with people who have different goals and approaches helps simulate real-world scenarios. The community created through the program, including ongoing support from lecturers, is another significant advantage.
Ralitsa's Reflection
Ralitsa highlights the importance of the right mindset and practical application of theories. The program gave her the confidence to implement new practices in her job and provided valuable resources for continued learning.
Chavdar's Takeaway
For Chavdar, the diverse experiences of the lecturers were incredibly valuable. The willingness of these industry experts to offer guidance and support even after the course ended was a significant advantage.
Tedi’s Success
After the course, Tedi applied for positions and was successful in securing a junior role at Progress, where she now manages her own product.
Ralitsa’s Confidence
Ralitsa used her new skills to advocate for product interviews in her company, overcoming resistance and driving forward with a passion for continuous learning.
Chavdar’s Transition
Chavdar’s transition to product management in a software company was facilitated by his practical experience in the Telerik Academy and the support he received from the community.
The journeys of Teodora, Ralitsa, and Chavdar illustrate the transformative power of practical training and community support in navigating career transitions. Their experiences offer valuable insights for anyone considering a similar path, highlighting the importance of determination, practical skills, and continuous learning.
If you want to be in their shoes this time next year, apply for Upskill Product Management here!
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