Not enough alignment. There are no shared goals; no clear targets; or the product vision is missing, it needs to be repeated, or it is not motivating the team.

We learn by consuming books, blogposts, podcasts, and so on. We improve our skills by applying what we have learned to our daily work, or to a side project we’re working on. Reflecting helps us make sure we’re investing our precious development time wisely. And contributing to the product management community (no matter whether it’s your company’s

Write down five characteristics of the worst colleague you could ever imagine. Collect the characteristics then dot vote on them (which ones are the worst—the ones driving everyone nuts!). Pick the top 10 and ask the team to come up with the contrary positive characteristics. Let the team discuss which ones of the 10 characteristics are most

I would recommend my manager to others. My manager assigns stretch opportunities to help me develop in my career. My manager communicates clear goals for our team. My manager gives me actionable feedback on a regular basis.

My manager makes tough decisions effectively (e.g., decisions involving multiple teams, competing priorities). My manager effectively collaborates across boundaries (e.g., team, organizational) and fosters alignment. Optional additional questions: What would you recommend your manager keep doing? What would you have your manager change?

4. Refine it. Find your cadence for periodically reviewing these elements.

2. Share it. Sharing what you have created is usually not something people put much thought into, but they should.

The rule of thumb I use for most product managers is this: four hours of uninterrupted work, four hours for meetings, and lunch in between. But as I said, everybody needs to find her own balance here.

Use a proven storytelling structure to ensure nothing is missing (e.g., the hero, the journey, the destination);