The Product Pivot: Stories of career shifts, breakthroughs, and advice for PMs.

The Product Pivot | Big Tech Myths - A PM’s Journey to Microsoft

TheProductPivot

In this episode of The Product Pivot, Santi and Meagan sit down with Varsh, a Senior Product Manager at Microsoft, to discuss her journey from solutions engineering to building Gen AI products like Copilot.

She debunks myths about breaking into big tech, shares actionable advice for aspiring PMs, and highlights the power of transferable skills.

Whether you're looking to pivot into product management or grow your career, this episode is full of insights, strategies, and real-world advice to help you navigate the job market and stand out as a PM.

Key insights include:

  • Myths vs. reality – What it really takes to break into big tech
  • Varsh’s journey – How she transitioned into product management
  • The impact of AI on PM roles and the future of AI-driven product building
  • Networking & LinkedIn strategies for job seekers
  • Essential resources to help you land a PM role

Resources Mentioned:

  • Cracking the PM Interview by Jackie Bavaro & Gayle Laakmann McDowell – Amazon Link


Connect with Varshine: LinkedIn

Listen now and don’t forget to follow for more product management insights!


Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro & Meet Varshine

02:00 – How Varshine Pivoted into Product Management

06:00 – Myths About Breaking Into Big Tech

12:00 – The Role of AI in Product Management

20:00 – Dealing with Rejection & Career Growth

24:00 – Advice for Aspiring Product Managers

35:00 – Networking & Building a PM Brand

41:00 – Fun Q&A & Closing Thoughts

People on this episode