My Top 10 Tech Communities for Product Managers

Being part of several product management communities has profoundly influenced my growth as a product manager. I’ve realized that no one has all the answers, and the collective wisdom of senior and junior product managers around me has been invaluable. In this article, I’ll share the benefits of being part of communities and the top 10 communities that every Nigerian product manager should join.

The Benefits of Joining Communities as a Product Manager

Engaging in product management communities offers a multitude of benefits, enriching your professional journey in various ways. Here are some of the key advantages:

1. Networking

Being part of a community allows you to connect with other product managers, ranging from novices to seasoned experts. These connections can lead to meaningful relationships, mentorship opportunities, and collaborative projects. Additionally, you get to attend events and hangouts where you can meet product managers in your location, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support.

2. Job Opportunities

Communities often share job postings and career opportunities that might not be widely advertised. As a member, you gain access to exclusive job boards, referrals, and recommendations that can significantly enhance your career prospects.

3. Portfolio Reviews

Having your portfolio reviewed by peers and experienced professionals can provide invaluable feedback. Communities offer a platform for constructive critiques, helping you refine your work and present your skills in the best possible light.

4. Staying Updated on Tech Trends

The tech industry evolves rapidly, and staying informed about the latest trends and advancements is crucial. Communities are a great source of up-to-date information, discussions, and insights about emerging technologies, tools, and methodologies.

5. Promoting Your Product/Brand

Being active in product management communities allows you to showcase your work and promote your products or brand. This exposure can lead to new opportunities, partnerships, and increased visibility within the industry.

6. Celebrations and Support

Communities are not just about professional growth; they also celebrate your personal milestones and achievements. Whether it’s a job promotion, the launch of a new product, or a significant project milestone, being part of a community means you have a supportive network that acknowledges and celebrates your successes.

7. Access to Learning Resources

Many product management communities offer free learning resources, including articles, webinars, courses, and workshops. These resources can help you stay ahead of the curve, continuously improving your skills and knowledge.

My Top 10 Tech Communities for Product Managers

1. Product Dive

If you’re looking to connect with top product managers who have a proven track record of building and scaling innovative products, Product Dive is the community for you. This is an excellent place to learn solid product development skills, make meaningful connections, and discover career-changing opportunities. Product Dive boasts members from Lagos, Ibadan, Abeokuta, Bauchi, Ghana, Canada, and the UK. Membership is free. Join here: Product Dive Community.

2. People In Product (PIP)

People In Product (PIP) is a vibrant community that focuses on fostering collaboration among product managers across Africa. This community offers a platform to share experiences, gain insights from industry leaders, and participate in events and workshops. PIP is a great place to network and develop product management skills with peers and mentors. Join here: PIP Community

3. Ingressive for Good (I4G)

Ingressive for Good (I4G) is a nonprofit organization that aims to increase the earning power of African youth by training them in tech and providing them with job opportunities. The I4G community is a fantastic place for product managers to find tech scholarships and resources, connect with like-minded individuals, and participate in various training programs that can enhance their skills. Join here: I4G Community

4. SheCodeAfrica

SheCodeAfrica is a community that empowers African women in tech. For female product managers, this community offers a supportive environment to learn, grow, and connect with other women in the industry. SheCodeAfrica provides mentorship, training, and networking opportunities to help women thrive in their tech careers. Join here: SCA Community

5. Tech4Dev Alumni Community

The Tech4Dev Alumni Community is for graduates of Tech4Dev programs. As a product manager, being part of this community allows you to stay connected with fellow alumni, participate in continuous learning opportunities, and gain access to job postings and career development resources. Click here to apply for their Programs.

6. Mind the Product

This is a community of over 60,000 product managers across the world. This community is well known for its meetup called ProductTank. In Nigeria, ProductTank chapters provide opportunities to attend local events, hear from experienced product managers, and discuss the latest trends and challenges in product management. Join here: Mind The Product Community.

7. Google Developers Group (GDG)

Google Developers Group (GDG) is a community of tech enthusiasts who come together to learn, share, and collaborate on technology projects. As a product manager, GDG can help you stay up-to-date with the latest Google technologies, connect with developers, and participate in workshops and hackathons. Join here: GDG Community.

8. Product Manager Africa

Product Manager Africa is a community dedicated to supporting product managers across the continent. It offers resources such as webinars, articles, and networking events to help product managers enhance their skills and advance their careers. Joining this community provides access to a wealth of knowledge and a supportive network. Join here: Product Manager Africa.

9. GenZTechies

GenZTechies is a community for GenZs in tech, including product managers. This community empowers the next generation of tech leaders by providing mentorship, training, and networking opportunities. It’s a great place for young product managers to learn, grow, and connect with peers. Join here: GenZTechies.

10. Technoob

Technoob is a community that caters to tech newbies and enthusiasts in Nigeria. For product managers, this community offers a platform to share knowledge, ask questions, and participate in discussions about various tech topics. It’s a welcoming space for those new to product management or looking to expand their knowledge. Join here: Technoob.

These communities provide valuable resources, networking opportunities, and support for product managers at all stages of their careers. By joining them, you can enhance your skills, connect with industry professionals, and stay informed about the latest trends and best practices in product management.

P.S. Most of these communities uses Slack as their official communication and collaboration tool. You’ll need to familiarise yourself with Slack for seamless interaction with members.

Thank you for reading!