The best side projects for product managers

After a decade in product management, the author transitioned to freelancing, inspired by the desire to work on diverse projects for shorter durations, which was not feasible at their previous employer, Zalando. This shift led to the development of side projects that eventually secured freelance opportunities, including writing for LogRocket. The article advocates for product managers to engage in side projects, highlighting their potential to enhance personal branding, improve skills, and expand networks. Various types of side projects, such as building websites, creating newsletters, producing videos, designing courses, and hosting podcasts, cater to different skill sets and interests. The piece emphasizes the importance of identifying a problem worth solving and suggests strategies for starting a side project, like leveraging one's expertise and building a minimal viable product. Side projects can provide financial stability, personal growth, and unexpected opportunities, as illustrated by the author's successful freelance engagements and partnerships.