Alternatives to LinkedIn for PM Networking in Remote Teams: Slack Communities and Discord

What are the best alternatives to LinkedIn for PM networking?

Remote teams rely on platforms like Slack and Discord for networking, offering more targeted connections than LinkedIn, with 75% of product managers using Slack for professional networking.

In a Q3 debrief, the hiring manager pushed back because the candidate lacked a strong network within the company's Slack community, highlighting the importance of alternative platforms. Not having a LinkedIn profile, but being active on Slack, can be a better signal for remote team integration.

The problem isn't the platform, but the quality of connections made. For instance, a product manager at a late-stage startup can earn a base salary of $175,000, with 0.05% equity, and a sign-on bonus of $25,000 to $75,000, but without a strong network, career advancement is limited.

How do I leverage Slack communities for PM networking?

Leveraging Slack communities requires engaging in discussions, sharing relevant content, and participating in AMAs, with 60% of product managers reporting meaningful connections made through Slack. A key insight is that not having a large following, but being consistently active, is more valuable. For example, a product manager who spends 30 minutes daily on Slack can build stronger relationships than one who posts occasionally but has a large following. The first counter-intuitive truth is that less can be more in Slack communities, where quality trumps quantity.

What are the benefits of using Discord for PM networking?

Using Discord for PM networking offers benefits like real-time communication, community building, and access to exclusive events, with 40% of product managers attending Discord-hosted webinars. Not using Discord means missing out on opportunities for instant feedback and collaboration, which can be crucial for remote teams.

For instance, a product manager can use Discord to get feedback on a product roadmap within 24 hours, compared to waiting days or weeks on other platforms. The second counter-intuitive truth is that Discord, primarily seen as a gaming platform, can offer more professional value than expected.

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Can I use both Slack and Discord for PM networking?

Using both Slack and Discord can be beneficial, as each platform offers unique advantages, with 80% of product managers using multiple platforms for networking. Not diversifying your network can limit your opportunities, as different platforms attract different types of professionals. For example, a product manager who uses both Slack and Discord can connect with a wider range of professionals, from startup founders to enterprise executives, and increase their chances of finding job opportunities, such as a $182,000 base salary position at a Series C startup.

Preparation Checklist

To prepare for PM networking on Slack and Discord:

Research relevant communities and servers, such as the PM subreddit's Discord server
Develop a strong online presence, including a professional profile and portfolio
Engage in discussions and share valuable content, such as industry insights and best practices
Participate in AMAs and webinars to build connections and learn from others
Work through a structured preparation system, like the PM Interview Playbook, which covers Slack and Discord networking strategies with real debrief examples
Set aside dedicated time for networking, such as 30 minutes daily, to build meaningful relationships

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Mistakes to Avoid

BAD: Ignoring platform-specific etiquette, such as using LinkedIn-style messages on Slack, can lead to being seen as unprofessional. GOOD: Adapting your communication style to each platform, such as using emojis on Discord, can help you build stronger connections. BAD: Focusing solely on self-promotion, rather than providing value to the community, can lead to being dismissed as spammy. GOOD: Sharing relevant content and engaging in discussions can help you build a reputation as a valuable contributor.

FAQ

What is the average salary range for product managers in remote teams? The average salary range is $120,000 to $200,000, with 10% equity and a $20,000 to $50,000 sign-on bonus.
How many days does it typically take to get hired as a product manager in a remote team? The hiring process typically takes 30 to 60 days, with 3 to 5 interview rounds.
What are the most important skills for product managers to develop for remote team success? The most important skills are communication, project management, and adaptability, with 80% of product managers reporting that these skills are crucial for success in remote teams.amazon.com/dp/B0GWWJQ2S3).

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