Marketing Consultant
In 2025, the role of a Product Manager will continue to evolve, driven by advancements in technology, changing customer expectations and the demand for innovation. Hiring the right Product Manager can be transformative for any business, bridging the gap between vision and execution. However, identifying the right candidate can be challenging, especially if you don’t have a technical background. This guide will help you understand what to look for in a great Product Manager, how to assess their skills, and why certain traits are critical for success in the fast-paced landscape of 2025.
1. Understanding the role of a Product Manager in 2025
Product Managers are often described as the “CEO of the product,” but their role is more nuanced. They are responsible for:
- Defining the product vision and strategy.
- Aligning cross-functional teams, including engineering, design, marketing and sales.
- Prioritising features and initiatives based on business goals and customer feedback.
- Ensuring the product meets market needs while balancing technical feasibility and business objectives.
In 2025, the role of a Product Manager also involves deeper integration of AI-driven insights, sustainability considerations and customer-centric design. Product Managers must be adept at leveraging data to make informed decisions and leading teams in a hybrid or remote work environment.
2. Key traits to look for in a great Product Manager
When evaluating candidates, you should prioritise the following traits:
Strategic thinking and visionary leadership
A great Product Manager should be able to see the big picture and craft a compelling product strategy that aligns with your company’s mission, as well as overall business growth goals. They should anticipate market trends and translate business goals into actionable plans.
How to assess: Ask candidates to describe a product strategy they’ve developed and how it impacted business outcomes. Look for their ability to articulate a clear vision and connect it to measurable results.
Strong communication and storytelling skills
Product Managers act as a bridge between technical and non-technical stakeholders. They must convey complex ideas in simple terms, inspire teams and advocate for the product to leadership and customers.
How to assess: Present a hypothetical scenario and ask how they would communicate a product delay to different stakeholders. Look for clarity, empathy and adaptability in their responses.
Customer-centric mindset
Understanding and empathising with customers is crucial. A Product Manager should be passionate about solving customer problems and delivering value while putting themselves in the shoe of the customer.
How to assess: Ask candidates how they gather and prioritise customer feedback. Look for examples where customer insights directly influenced product decisions.
Data-driven decision making
In 2025, data is more accessible and actionable than ever. A great Product Manager should use data to inform decisions, validate assumptions, and measure success.
How to assess: Ask how they’ve used data to make a critical product decision. Look for a balance between analytical rigor and intuition.
Technical fluency
While they don’t need to code, Product Managers should have a solid understanding of the technical landscape. This helps them collaborate effectively with engineers and make informed trade-offs.
How to assess: Pose a scenario involving a technical constraint and ask how they would handle it. Look for their ability to understand technical challenges and communicate solutions.
Adaptability and Resilience
The product landscape is constantly changing. A great Product Manager thrives in ambiguity and can pivot strategies when needed.
How to assess: Ask candidates to describe a time when they had to pivot a product strategy due to unforeseen challenges. Look for resilience and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
3. How to evaluate candidates if you don’t have a technical background
As a non-technical founder, you might feel at a disadvantage when assessing technical fluency or engineering collaboration. Here are a few tips:
- Involve your technical team in the interview process to evaluate technical communication and feasibility discussions.
- Focus on problem-solving skills and their ability to prioritise trade-offs rather than specific technical knowledge.
- Use case studies and role-playing exercises to observe how candidates approach real-world scenarios.
4. The importance of cultural fit
Hiring a Product Manager is not just about skills, it’s about finding someone who aligns with your company’s values and culture. In 2025, with more remote and hybrid teams, cultural alignment becomes even more crucial. Look for candidates who:
- Value collaboration and inclusivity.
- Are comfortable working in a distributed team environment.
- Show a commitment to continuous learning and innovation.
How to assess: During interviews, discuss your company’s mission and values. Observe how candidates respond and whether their values resonate with yours.
5. The role of emerging technologies in Product Management
In 2025, technologies like AI, machine learning and blockchain are shaping product development. A forward-thinking Product Manager should have a pulse on these trends and understand how they impact your industry.
What to look for: Candidates who demonstrate curiosity and a willingness to learn about emerging technologies, even if they’re not experts.
6. Crafting a competitive offer
Top Product Management talent is in high demand. To attract the best candidates, you’ll need to offer:
- Competitive compensation packages.
- Flexible work arrangements, including remote options.
- Opportunities for professional growth and career development.
- Highlight your company’s mission and impact, as purpose-driven work is increasingly important in 2025.
7. Conclusion: Finding the right Product Manager for your business
Hiring a great Product Manager is a critical investment in your company’s future. If you aren’t technical yourself, focusing on the candidate’s strategic thinking, communication, customer empathy and adaptability as this will help you identify applicants who can drive your product vision forward. By leveraging these insights, you can confidently navigate the hiring process and find a Product Manager who will help your company thrive in 2025 and beyond.
Ready to start your search? Keep these traits in mind, involve your team, and don’t rush the process. We are a specialist Product Management and Executive Search recruitment agency, ready to help you find the right candidate. Contact us today and we can help you with your search.
Are you looking for your next role? Upload your CV or view our live jobs.
Other similar Product Manager roles we recruit for include Interim Product Manager
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Read our guide to the top 75 product management interview questions, that are often asked at interview by employers.
