💌 Dear Recruiters: What Do You Look for in a Product Owner?
By Rushvi Gajjar — Technical Product Owner | 10+ Years in Tech
🧭 Why I’m Asking
I’ve spent over a decade in development, and recently transitioned into product ownership. I’ve led launches, built roadmaps, aligned cross-functional teams, and earned my PSM I certification. I’ve built a portfolio, refined my LinkedIn, and started writing to share my journey.
And yet — despite all that — I’m still asking:
What are you really looking for in a Product Owner?
💬 What I’ve Heard So Far
From job descriptions and recruiter calls, I’ve seen a wide range of expectations:
- “We want someone strategic — but also hands-on.”
- “You need 3+ years in product ownership — even if you’ve led teams before.”
- “You must know Agile inside out — but also be flexible when we don’t follow it.”
- “You should be technical — but not too technical.”
- “You need to own the roadmap — but also deliver features fast.”
It’s a lot. And it’s not always consistent.
📉 The Reality of the Job Market
I’ve received rejection emails that say “we’ve moved forward with other candidates.” I’ve been ghosted after promising interviews. I’ve seen roles paused, restructured, or closed mid-process.
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And I know I’m not alone.
🧠 What I Bring to the Table
- 10+ years in development (Magento, e-commerce platforms, tech architecture)
- 8 months in product ownership, leading launches and roadmap strategy
- Certified Scrum Master (PSM I)
- Experience with stakeholder alignment, sprint planning, and KPI-driven decisions
- A portfolio that shows real impact — not just responsibilities
I’m not just applying — I’m evolving.
🧩 What I Wish You Knew
While my hands-on product ownership experience spans 8 months, my foundation is built on over a decade of technical leadership, stakeholder collaboration, and delivery ownership. I’ve often performed product responsibilities before officially holding the title.
I recognize that many roles ask for 2–3 years of product ownership. But I believe that potential, adaptability, and strategic mindset matter just as much as tenure.
What I’m asking for is a fair chance — to bring my experience, energy, and learning mindset into a role where I can prove my value. I’m not just looking for a job — I’m looking to contribute, grow, and lead.
🤝 What I’d Love to Know
If you’re a recruiter or hiring manager, I’d love to hear:
- What makes a Product Owner stand out to you?
- How do you evaluate candidates with strong tech backgrounds but newer product experience?
- What certifications, skills, or traits do you value most?
- How do you assess leadership potential in someone who’s pivoting roles?
Drop a comment, message me, or share this with your network. Your insights could help not just me — but many others navigating this transition.
💬 Final Thought
This isn’t just a post — it’s a conversation starter. Because behind every application is a person trying to grow, contribute, and lead.
Let’s make hiring more human. Let’s talk.
Rushvi Gajjar
Technical Product Owner | Scrum Master Certified
📍 London, UK
