My Journey of Rediscovering Learning: First-Time Experience with Product Management at Unlearn Product

The last time I spent dedicated time studying was in 2017, when I completed my PGDM in Business Administration at Welingkar Institute of Management Studies (Distance Learning). Back then, the learning experience was largely theoretical, with limited or no interaction with teachers or mentors. It worked well for its time – pre-COVID, when e-learning over platforms like Zoom was still a distant concept. It was also my first exposure to distance learning, and while valuable, it lacked the practical depth I craved.

Fast forward to 2024, and I find myself on a new journey, studying Product Management at Unlearn Product. This experience has been nothing short of transformative.

Realization: The World Has So Much to Offer!
Through this course, I’ve realized that the opportunities for growth are endless if you’re open to embracing them. The shift from passive, theory-based learning to an interactive, practical approach has been eye-opening.

Practical Learning Every Day: The assignments at Unlearn Product are designed to immerse us in real-world scenarios. Guided by mentors who are accomplished Product Managers at organizations like Google and Meta, every task pushes me to think critically and apply concepts. Learning from industry experts has given me clarity and confidence in navigating the nuances of Product Management.

Impactful Skill Development: A pivotal takeaway has been understanding how individuals in any role can create meaningful impact—for both organizational goals and personal growth. At Unlearn Product, we’ve chosen Product Management as our vehicle to build and improve products that make a difference for the organizations we work for and the users we serve.
Thanks to the incredible mentors and supportive peers at Unlearn, I’m not just learning Product Management but also building a mindset to drive impactful change.

Curiosity for What’s Next
This experience has reignited my curiosity and hunger to learn. I find myself asking: What else is out there? What new skills or perspectives can I adopt to better contribute to the world of products and innovation? The journey feels like it’s only just begun, and I’m eager to see where it takes me next.
Here’s to embracing lifelong learning and creating meaningful value in everything we do! Unlearn Product
hashtag#productmanagement hashtag#lifelonglearning hashtag#unlearnproduct hashtag#unlearnstreak

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The past few months have been an incredible learning experience as I continue my learning at Unlearn Product. Here’s a glimpse of what I’ve mastered so far:

Writing PRDs that align vision and execution.
Crafting wireframes using tools like Figma to bring ideas to life.
Managing backlogs in tools like Linear for seamless execution.
Collaborating with cross-functional teams, ensuring alignment and progress.
Prioritizing features using frameworks to deliver maximum impact.
Conducting root cause analyses to solve real problems, while identifying internal and external factors.
Leveraging Notion to collaborate and to create customized workspaces for productivity.
Setting up sprint boards and ensuring timely delivery of tasks.
Performing user research to deeply understand customer needs.
Defining user personas and crafting user stories with clear acceptance criteria.
Driving better team collaboration and communication.

Currently, I’m part of a team building a product from scratch—an exhilarating challenge that combines everything I’ve learned so far. Delivery is just four weeks away, and I couldn’t be more excited to see the results of our hard work!
Product Management is a continuous learning journey, and I’m fully embracing it.
Unlearn Product

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Became a Cohort Member at Unlearn Product: My Journey So Far
Here’s a week-by-week recap of my incredible journey through the Unlearn Product cohort:
Week 1 – The journey began with a virtual introduction to the cohort members—a dynamic group of experienced professionals from diverse backgrounds. We kicked things off with an individual assignment to improve the Be My Eyes app, focusing on ideation and delivering an MVP.
Week 2 – My first team assignment: building a Road Trip Travel App. We made mistakes, learned from them, and developed a deep appreciation for research and analysis as the foundation of product development.
Week 3 – This week was all about mastering tools used by Product Managers. From creating backlogs and user stories to writing detailed PRDs on Notion and designing features on Figma, I gained hands-on experience with the essential PM toolkit.
Week 4 – A new team assignment brought an exciting challenge: ideating a feature for Netflix to auto-mute or censor explicit content. This feature was tailored for families in India and the Middle East, enabling them to enjoy bold content without awkward moments.
Week 5 – The GTM Strategy Week. From social media campaigns to SEO and SEM, we explored every facet of marketing strategy. Safe to say, I felt like I could take on the role of a Marketing Head by the end of this session!
Week 6 – Meeting the last cohort’s winning team was a true inspiration. Their product, Surview, was built and delivered in record time, bridging a gap in the survey process. It was a motivational booster that fueled us to push our limits.
Week 7 – The beginning of the final product journey! With new teams and a fresh problem statement, we embarked on creating a product that solves a real-world problem.
Week 8 – The building phase continues. Daily stand-ups have become intense brainstorming marathons, lasting hours. Bonus: all that standing is definitely strengthening my thighs!
Week 9 – To be started…
Demo Day – The grand finale! The big day awaits, where all the hard work and learning will culminate in presenting our final product.
This journey has been a rollercoaster of learning, collaboration, and growth. From ideation to execution, each week has taught me invaluable lessons that go beyond just tools and frameworks. I’m thrilled about what’s to come and can’t wait to showcase what we’ve built!
Unlearn Product hashtag#FirstInfluencer
hashtag#ProductManagement hashtag#UnlearnProduct hashtag#Journey hashtag#GrowthMindset hashtag#DemoDay

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After reading through some articles and working closely with the Product Managers I could answer below question.

Who is a Product Manager?

A Product Manager wears many hats. A great PM is a strategic thinker, an effective communicator, and a visionary leader. They’re constantly breaking down barriers, driving collaboration, and balancing priorities. As a researcher and quick learner, they dive deep into data and trends, always keeping an eye on the future. A problem solver at heart, they identify opportunities, pivot when needed, and ensure the team is aligned toward a shared vision. Being a PM isn’t just about managing a product—it’s about leading with purpose and delivering impact.

A Product Manager is that Mother, who is keeping everything running smoothly. Like a mom, they anticipate needs, solve problems, and make complex things simple for everyone. They handle the chaos, nurture relationships, and ensure the team succeed. #unlearnstreak Unlearn Product

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In the bustling business landscape of Dubai, where innovation meets opportunity, Siddhant Kakkar stands out as an aspiring product manager poised to make a significant impact in the PropTech and e-commerce sectors. With a rich background in strategic partnerships, sales, and customer relationship management, Siddhant’s journey has equipped him with the skills and insights necessary to excel in product management.

A Career Rooted in Strategy and Growth

Siddhant’s professional path has been marked by a relentless pursuit of growth, both for the companies he has worked for and himself. Currently, as the Classified Sales Manager at Ayshei UAE, he is responsible for cultivating strategic partnerships and leveraging his CRM expertise to drive market expansion. Since joining Ayshei in January 2024, Siddhant has played a crucial role in blending leadership with direct client engagement, ensuring that sales targets are not only met but consistently exceeded. This role has provided him with a deep understanding of market dynamics, customer needs, and the strategic planning required to develop successful products.

Prior to his current role, Siddhant honed his skills as a Strategic Partnerships & Sales Manager at Houza, a prominent player in the PropTech industry. From April 2022 to December 2023, he was instrumental in driving new business development and crafting a comprehensive product roadmap. His ability to connect high-level networking with actionable strategies contributed to a notable increase in Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) at Houza. This experience has been pivotal in shaping his vision as an aspiring product manager, as it taught him the importance of aligning product features with market demands and customer expectations.

Building Blocks of Success: Experience at Bayut & Dubizzle

Siddhant’s tenure at Bayut & Dubizzle, from September 2018 to April 2022, was another critical phase in his career development. Starting as a Senior Sales Account Manager and eventually becoming a Sales Team Lead, Siddhant consistently demonstrated his ability to meet and exceed revenue targets. His work involved managing client relationships, mentoring new team members, and leading sales efforts across the organization. These roles not only refined his leadership skills but also gave him a nuanced understanding of customer pain points, which is essential for any successful product manager.

His success in these roles is a testament to his ability to translate customer feedback into actionable strategies—a skill that will undoubtedly serve him well as he transitions into product management. Siddhant’s ability to maintain a healthy business pipeline, provide accurate forecasts, and drive team performance underlines his strategic mindset and operational excellence.

The Early Days: Foundations in Luxury and Event Sales

Before his foray into PropTech and e-commerce, Siddhant laid the groundwork for his career in luxury retail and event management. At Rivoli Group, he managed luxury boutiques, overseeing everything from inventory management to customer relationship building. His success in increasing store revenue and achieving sales targets highlighted his knack for understanding consumer behavior and market trends—key elements of product management.

His earlier experience as a Sales Manager at Dream Vision Entertainment in Mumbai further broadened his perspective. In this role, Siddhant was responsible for cold calling, meeting with key decision-makers, and securing business opportunities. These early experiences taught him the importance of persistence, client engagement, and the ability to adapt to different market environments.

Educational Foundation and Future Aspirations

Siddhant’s academic background in business management and marketing, with a Master’s degree in Marketing Research from Welingkar Institute of Management and a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Mumbai, provides a solid foundation for his aspirations in product management. His education has equipped him with the theoretical knowledge and analytical skills required to develop, market, and manage products effectively.

As Siddhant sets his sights on becoming a product manager, he brings with him a wealth of experience in strategic planning, customer relationship management, and market analysis. His journey so far has been one of consistent learning, adaptation, and growth—qualities that are essential in the dynamic field of product management.

In a world where consumer needs are constantly evolving, Siddhant Kakkar’s unique blend of experience, education, and ambition positions him as a promising future product manager. His ability to connect the dots between customer needs, market trends, and business objectives will undoubtedly help him shape innovative products that drive success in the competitive landscapes of PropTech and e-commerce.

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Siddhant Kakkar’s journey in the business and sales world is a testament to strategic thinking, leadership, and continuous growth. Based in Dubai, Siddhant has built a solid foundation of expertise across PropTech, marketplaces, e-commerce, and strategic partnerships. His professional path is characterized by a consistent focus on driving revenue growth, forging impactful relationships, and leading teams toward success.

Siddhant’s current role is as the Classified Sales Manager at Ayshei UAE, where he began in January 2024. Here, he is at the forefront of cultivating strategic partnerships and utilizing his CRM expertise to drive market expansion. His role is a blend of leadership, strategic planning, and client engagement, allowing him to consistently exceed sales targets in the competitive e-commerce landscape.

Before Ayshei, Siddhant played a pivotal role at Houza as the Strategic Partnerships & Sales Manager from April 2022 to December 2023. His tenure focused on new business development, networking, and creating a comprehensive product roadmap and strategy. Reporting directly to the Chief Commercial Officer, Siddhant’s work helped elevate the company’s product offerings and boost Average Revenue Per User (ARPU), thanks to his hands-on client onboarding approach and internal team collaboration.

Siddhant’s experience at Bayut & Dubizzle from September 2018 to April 2022 further sharpened his skills. Starting as a Senior Sales Account Manager and later becoming a Sales Team Lead, he consistently met revenue targets and achieved top performance. His role involved everything from mentoring new team members to meticulously managing client relationships, prospecting new business, and regularly exceeding KPIs. His leadership as a proxy team lead and his ability to handle high-pressure situations set him apart during this phase of his career.

Earlier in his journey, Siddhant worked as a Key Accounts Manager at DG Business, where he drove revenue growth for key accounts and maintained strong client relationships. His ability to identify new opportunities and present performance reports to top management underlined his strategic capabilities.

Siddhant’s foundation in sales was laid at Rivoli Group, where he held the positions of Luxury Boutique Manager and Sales Executive. His management of key retail stores in Dubai’s most prestigious malls honed his expertise in luxury sales and inventory management. He exceeded store targets, managed customer relationships, and handled daily sales operations with precision.

Before stepping into the world of luxury retail, Siddhant gained early experience in event management and sales at Dream Vision Entertainment in Mumbai. Starting part-time as an event promoter, he rose to the role of Sales Manager, building and nurturing relationships with corporate clients and key decision-makers, setting the stage for his career in business development and sales.

Academically, Siddhant holds a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) with a specialization in Marketing Research from Welingkar Institute of Management, coupled with a Bachelor’s degree in Business, Management, and Marketing from the University of Mumbai.

Siddhant’s career reflects a consistent drive for growth, strategic insight, and leadership, making him a valuable asset in the ever-evolving landscapes of PropTech, e-commerce, and strategic partnerships in Dubai and beyond.

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Product managers are the unsung heroes of the business world, responsible for guiding a product from conception to launch and beyond. They work closely with cross-functional teams to define product roadmaps, prioritize features, and ensure that deadlines are met. In short, they are the driving force behind the success of a product.

So how can you become a product manager? The first step is to gain the necessary skills and experience. Most product managers have a background in business, marketing, or engineering, and many also have a master’s degree in a related field. Additionally, gaining experience in roles such as project management or business analysis can help you develop the skills needed to succeed as a product manager.

Once you have the necessary qualifications, the next step is to start networking. Joining professional organizations, attending industry events, and connecting with other product managers can help you build a network of contacts that can help you land your dream job. Additionally, consider reaching out to companies you are interested in working for and expressing your interest in a product management role.

Finally, be prepared to showcase your skills and passion for product management during the interview process. Be ready to discuss your experience, your successes, and your vision for the future of the product you hope to manage. And don’t forget to demonstrate your ability to work well with cross-functional teams and communicate effectively with stakeholders.

In conclusion, becoming a product manager is a challenging but rewarding career path for those with a passion for innovation and a drive to succeed. By gaining the necessary skills and experience, networking with industry professionals, and showcasing your passion during the interview process, you can position yourself for success in this exciting field. Good luck!

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Why should one invest in real estate before any other investment of their life?

Real estate investment is one of the most important financial decisions that an individual can make in their life. Debates have been going on for decades on whether real estate investment is worth it, and the conclusion has always been in favor of investment in real estate.

Diversification of investments

Real estate investment is an excellent tool to diversify an individual’s financial portfolio. Diversification of investments is a strategy used by investors to reduce the risk of losing money. Real estate investments not only help mitigate risk but can also help increase returns. This is because real estate investments have a lower correlation with other assets such as stocks and bonds, meaning that the investment is less likely to be affected by external factors.

Steady income stream

Investing in real estate provides an individual with a steady income stream. Rental income is one of the primary sources of income for real estate investors. A rental income stream can provide an individual with a stable and predictable cash flow that they can rely on for the long term.

Pride of ownership

Real estate investment is one of the few investments that an individual can physically touch and see. Owning a property is a source of pride and satisfaction. This feeling of pride is often associated with the idea of land ownership, which is a fundamental aspect of human culture. Additionally, owning a property gives an individual a sense of stability, which can be critical in emotional terms.

Flexibility in investment

Real estate investments typically offer a wide range of options for investment. This includes commercial, residential, and industrial properties that individuals can purchase. Real estate investments provide individuals with the flexibility to choose investments that match their individual preferences and goals.

Appreciation of value

In general, real estate investments will appreciate in value over time. It is essential to understand that this appreciation does not happen overnight, and it may fluctuate depending on economic conditions. However, the long-term impact of investing in real estate is that individual investors are likely to experience a significant increase in the value of their properties. The appreciation in value is one of the key reasons why real estate investments have become a popular investment option globally.

Tax benefits

Real estate investments often offer several tax benefits, which can be an attractive incentive for investors. For example, tax benefits can help investors reduce their tax liability by allowing for deductions such as mortgage interest, repairs, and property taxes. Additionally, real estate investments provide investors with an opportunity to defer capital gains taxes on the sale of a property by reinvesting the proceeds in a similar property. #dubai #realestate #investing

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Dubai population has witnessed a remarkable transformation over the last three decades. From a small fishing village with a population of just 370,000 in 1990 to one of the fastest-growing cities in the world, with a population of over 3 million in 2020, Dubai has come a long way.

The exponential growth of the city’s population can be attributed to various factors, such as a surge in economic development, an increase in employment opportunities, growing infrastructure, and access to world-class amenities. With the emergence of the oil industry in the 1960s, Dubai’s economy prospered, and the city began to attract a large number of expatriates seeking employment opportunities.

In the years that followed, Dubai continued to experience steady population growth, with an average annual growth rate of 5.5% between 1990 and 2020. According to the latest statistics, the city’s population is projected to reach 3.5 million in 2025 and 5 million by 2030.

This rapid growth has also led to challenges such as increased traffic congestion, overcrowding in some areas, and a strain on services such as healthcare, education, and housing. However, the government of Dubai has been proactive in addressing these challenges by investing in infrastructure, amenities, and services that cater to the needs of the growing population.

Dubai’s population growth is expected to continue over the coming years, driven by factors such as continued economic growth, diversification of the economy, and the city’s reputation as a global hub for trade, tourism, and innovation. The government has also implemented policies to attract foreign investment, talent, and entrepreneurs to the city, further driving population growth.

To accommodate the growing population, Dubai has planned several major projects, including the development of new residential areas, commercial centers, and infrastructure projects. The ongoing expansion of the city’s transportation networks, such as the metro and bus systems, will also help ensure that the city remains accessible and connected.

Al in all, Dubai’s population growth over the last 30 years has been remarkable, and the city’s future growth prospects remain bright. The government’s focus on infrastructure, services, and amenities to cater to the growing population, combined with continued economic growth and diversification, will help sustain Dubai’s growth story for years to come. #dubai #realestate #population

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Off-Plan Property:

Advantages:

1. Attractive Payment Plan: One of the advantages of buying off-plan property in Dubai is the payment plan offered by the developer. The payment plan is usually more flexible, and the buyer can have the opportunity to make payments over an extended period, which suits their budget.

2. Early bird discounts: Developers often offer early bird discounts or other bonuses for buyers who purchase off-plan properties prior to launch. This can mean you get a discounted rate for your new home!

3. Customization: Buyers of off-plan properties have the opportunity to choose the interior design, fittings, and finishes they want, giving them more freedom to customize their new home.

Disadvantages:

1. Delays in handover: There is a risk of delays in the handover of off-plan properties, which can be a significant disadvantage. This can happen due to a variety of factors, such as permission issues, site delays, and bad weather.

2. Unknown Quality: Buyers of off-plan properties may not be able to judge the quality of the finished product until it is complete, which can be risky.

3. Unfamiliar Location: Buyers might have to make a purchase decision based on plans, pictures, and promises of future development, which can be difficult, especially if the property is in an unfamiliar area.

Ready-to-Move-In Property:

Advantages:

1. No waiting time: The most significant advantage of buying a ready-to-move-in property in Dubai is that there is no waiting time, and the buyer can move in immediately after completing the transaction.

2. View the Property: Potential buyers can visit the property and see exactly what they are purchasing. This can be highly important as it can help you note down the flaws if there are any.

3. Hassle-free Transaction: The transactions for ready-to-move-in properties are much more straightforward as compared to off-plan properties.

Disadvantages:

1. High Prices: Ready-to-move-in properties are typically more expensive than off-plan properties. This can be a significant disadvantage for buyers who are working with a tight budget.

2. Limited Customizations: Once the property is complete, the buyer cannot customize their home to their liking, and they may have to spend additional money to remodel or renovate the property to meet their needs.

3. Less flexibility in payment: There is usually limited flexibility in the payment plan for ready-to-move-in properties, and the buyer may have to pay the entire amount in full at once.

Buyers are advised to consult with a reputable real estate agency before purchasing a property to ensure that they make well-informed investment decisions.
#realestate #investing #dubai

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