Max, Product Manager
Max has been a product manager at CHECK24 in Cologne since 2018. He is responsible for designing and inventing new features in the mobile communications area. In the interview, he gives exciting tips for career starters and tells us more about his day-to-day work in product management.
Hello Max, please introduce yourself.
Max:
Hi, my name is Max. I joined CHECK24 Mobilfunk in Cologne in 2018 as a Junior Product Manager. After graduating from high school, I first completed a dual bachelor's degree in retail management and then a part-time master's degree in business psychology. During this time, I worked as a junior consultant in a management consultancy and advised various companies on customer orientation and service quality. Especially because customer orientation is the central guideline at CHECK24, I decided to move into product management. That is where I can take long-term responsibility for ensuring that our customers can always use the best possible product.
How would you describe the job of a product manager?
Max:
In our "phones with contracts" department, I am responsible for various functions across all devices - for example, our customer area or communication via e-mails and push notifications. My job consists of three components: I work with our developers on functions directly visible in our comparison within a few days. I also independently design new features, such as self-service, and work closely with our management on strategic and innovative projects for our customers.
Do you prefer to work from home or in the office?
Max:
I am definitely in the team office. As a product manager, I am constantly in touch with the entire team, the developers, the management, and the marketing team. As we all sit just a few meters apart in the office, it is much easier to clarify questions or short agreements directly on-site. However, sometimes I like the home office to develop concentrated concepts for new product features.
The best thing about CHECK24?
The responsibility to ensure that that our customers can use the best product possible.
Max, Product Manager
What has been your favorite team event so far?
Max:
That was our "Mobilfunk goes Mallorca" event: In 2019, the entire Mobilfunk team flew to Mallorca for three days for team-building activities, kayaking, a buggy tour, and a cold drink or two on the beach. Everyone had a great time! It was amazing to exchange ideas with colleagues from other teams with whom we tend to have less contact within our day-to-day work.
What do you look forward to most when you go to work on Mondays?
Max:
With all the new functions in our comparison that I design, I want to make it easier for our customers to switch cell phone contracts. Every week I am motivated anew by the fact that all my colleagues have the same goal and are all involved in discussions and planning. I notice every day that we are all pulling in the same direction and thus advancing our product together.
Tell us a tip for young professionals interested in product management.
Max:
Personal responsibility and proactivity are essential at CHECK24. You will independently identify problems and directly find solutions. A basic understanding of technology is beneficial but optional: we also find solutions with our developers. The willingness to learn is essential and will help you start your career in product management.