John Majeski

In product management, encountering conflicting feedback is a common challenge. When 50% of your data points in one direction and the other 50% in another, the first step is to gather more data. If a larger sample size still reveals a significant split in preference or functionality, it may be a sign that you need two distinct products or different versions of the same product. Prioritize the product that offers the highest margin potential, and consider launching the second option either in tandem—if it won't extend your timeline—or as a roadmap item. Ultimately, consistently listening to customers ensures you're delivering the right product with the right features to the market.

To stand out, in terms of brand identity, as a self-employed product engineer, specialize in a niche, emphasize quality and innovation, build a strong personal brand through networking and thought leadership, foster excellent client relationships, showcase your work in a professional portfolio, stay updated on industry trends, and collect testimonials to build trust with potential clients.

I think it's important to have tools that are intuitive, easy to use, and flexible - the UI should be appealing, not clunky, and the UX should be positive out of the gate (when demo-ing). Beyond this it's important to look at collaboration features, ability to customize to your industry/product, progress tracking/timelines should be automatic, and it should provide good insights on scalability - what's working and what's not. Importantly, it should have hooks/APIs into other dev tools. Finally, it should be leveraging AI to some extent to create awareness and recommendations.

This is a great question. The answer should be simple, but the reality is that only 2% of venture capital goes to women. I mention this because it's something that my organization is working to change. That said, there are several groups and initiatives underway. And look to firms, like us, who seek to invest in woman-FOUNDED companies. Feel free to DM me for more information - happy to help and make introductions.

When seeking venture capital, no one, regardless of gender, should have to be anyone but themself. If you're in a position where you have to be someone other than yourself, MOVE ON. There are plenty of VCs who will respect founders for who they are. Easier said than done, but try not to accept capital out of desperation. There is most definitely a such thing as "the wrong money." Those who provide capital should be laser-aligned to you and your company.

I mentioned this in #1 above, but be sure to checkout the trailer for the movie by Catherine Gray, "Show Her The Money" as this feature-length documentary focuses on women founders and women funders. You can learn more at showherthemoneymovie.com