Prakhar GPM, Inmobi Glance, boasts nearly a decade of experience in F2P mobile gaming and consumer internet businesses, spanning stages from 0-1, growth, and maturity. His career began with Vodafone in Distribution, and he later transitioned into product management, contributing significantly to games like Bingo Bash and myVegas slots.

At InMobi Glance, he built the LIVE Entertainment and LIVE Commerce stack from the ground up, leading a dedicated team and currently spearheading News products for diverse geographies worldwide. Additionally, Prakhar had an entrepreneurial stint, developing a social networking platform focused on second-hand goods buy and rent behaviour.

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What is your pathway to becoming a group product manager, and do you have any advice for new PMs?

My guiding light was a deep-seated passion for creating digital products, even before obtaining a formal PM role. My entrepreneurial experience taught me invaluable lessons. Beginning my career in Sales and Distribution at Vodafone, I actively sought opportunities within the company, learned from existing Product Managers, and faced external rejections. The key is to stay calm, learn from those in your desired role, and consistently make efforts. Good work during my Sales and Distribution stint reached the Operations Director, who gave me the chance to try a PM role due to my market experience and consumer proximity.

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I'm currently an APM at a crowdfunding platform and looking for a job change. What's the current market for APM roles, and what strategy should I employ in applying for jobs?

The market for entry-level roles is favourable. Articulate your story and experiences to fit the role and company. Highlight achievements, and initiatives (even failed ones), grasp basic B2C product metrics, and explore various apps. Ravi Mehta's competency toolkit is valuable for specific PM role skills.

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What does a typical day look like for you?

My day starts with avoiding the Teams app immediately after waking up. I focus on data and core UX, engaging in discussions around various themes like engagement, content strategy, tech, AI, and more. These discussions shape product roadmap items. I allocate time for 1:1 catch-ups and PRD writing/reviewing, collaborating with devs, PMs, designers, and analytics.

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How does a PM role differ between small and large organizations?

Differences include longer gestation cycles, higher dependencies, more stakeholders in larger organizations, and the need for effective stakeholder management. Balancing internal vs. external customer needs varies. Small organizations offer more focus, innovation potential, and faster decision-making.

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You've secured international roles without being in the destination country. Any advice for those seeking international PM roles?

The gaming industry, especially mobile gaming, has abundant international opportunities. Actively engage with the global gaming landscape on LinkedIn, focusing on companies actively acquiring teams. Prior gaming experience enhances your case.

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If I want to work under you as a product manager, what criteria do you judge, and what skills should I acquire?

I focus on CV details, conduct case studies, delve into analytics, and assess behavioral aspects, intent, and humility. On-the-feet thinking is crucial, showcasing the ability to recover from challenging situations.

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How can someone from a diverse background like compliance and finance curate their CV for product roles?

Highlight consulting experience, showcasing projects and problem-solving approaches. Critical thinking is crucial, and understanding basic tech concepts is essential.

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Is product management only for those with an engineering background?

No, engineering background isn't mandatory. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are paramount. Transitioning from non-engineering roles is possible, emphasizing consulting experience and gaining context through discussions with other PMs.

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Any advice for those looking for a career change in the current situation?

Stay calm, persist in making efforts, and don't be overwhelmed by the feeling of lacking knowledge. Product management is about organized common sense, coupled with a willingness to learn, unlearn, and upskill.

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