Ifeanyi Emmanuel Onum is a product manager who stands as a guiding star for aspiring product managers. His journey from a Customer Support Officer to a Product Manager at CrediPay is not just a career leap but a story of transformation and inspiration. In his mentorship role, Onum imparts wisdom gleaned from his experiences, shaping the minds of tomorrow’s tech leaders.
He spoke with ENIOLA DANIEL on the power of soft skills, market research and others.
Celebrating Failure as a Growth Catalyst
“Every failure is a step closer to success,” Ifeanyi begins, encouraging his mentees to view setbacks as opportunities. His philosophy: embracing risk and learning from mistakes is far more valuable than playing it safe. “When you stumble, you discover new paths,” he adds, emphasizing the power of resilience in the face of adversity.
Beyond Technical Mastery: The Power of Soft Skills
Ifeanyi stresses that a product manager’s prowess lies beyond technical skills. “Leadership, empathy, and effective communication are the bedrock of successful product management,” he asserts. He urges his mentees to develop these essential soft skills, which he believes are instrumental in managing dynamic teams and complex projects.
Innovating for the Future
At CrediPay, Ifeanyi’s approach to innovation is inclusive and forward-thinking. “Innovation is not a solo journey; it’s a team endeavor,” he explains. He fosters an environment where every team member’s ideas are valued, leading to breakthroughs and creative solutions that keep them ahead of the curve.
The Crucial Role of Market Research
“Know your battlefield,” Ifeanyi advises, highlighting the importance of thorough market research. He mentors on how to dissect market trends, understand customer preferences, and identify gaps that their products can fill. “It’s about creating products that resonate with the market,” he notes.
Balancing Dreams with Reality
Ifeanyi teaches the art of setting realistic expectations. “Dream big, but anchor your dreams in reality,” he says. His approach to goal setting is both ambitious and pragmatic, ensuring that the team’s efforts align with achievable outcomes.
Putting Customers at the Forefront
A customer-centric philosophy is at the heart of Ifeanyi’s product management strategy. “We aim to create products that simplify and enrich our customers’ lives,” he shares. He emphasizes the need to continually adapt products to meet evolving customer needs, a strategy that has been pivotal in CrediPay’s success.
As Ifeanyi Emmanuel Onum continues his mentorship journey, he is not just imparting knowledge; he is igniting a passion for innovation and strategic thinking in the hearts of many. His story is a beacon of hope and a testament to the transformative power of mentorship in the tech world. The future of product management is bright, with mentors like Ifeanyi guiding the way.
