How Likability Can (and Can’t) Move Your Career

Does being likable actually help Product Managers get ahead—or just distract from what really matters?

In this episode, we dig into the balance between likability and results in product management. Do you really need to be liked to succeed? Or is trust and respect what really drives your career forward? Todd, Ryan, and Joe unpack how likability plays out in real product work—and why understanding this dynamic can transform how you manage stakeholders and grow your career.

You’ll leave with practical ways to build trust, earn respect, and avoid the common pitfalls that hold back well-intentioned PMs.

Pull up a chair and listen in if you're ready to rethink what drives your impact.

Time Stamped Notes:

Introduction and Overview
[00:00] Warm welcome – Ryan, Todd, and Joe set the scene for a deeper look at likability in product management.
[00:30] What does being likable even mean—and does it matter?

The Likability Spectrum
[00:49] Todd vs. Joe – Different reactions to being disliked.
[01:40] Ryan prompts reflection: Should PMs invest in being liked?

The Role of Trust and Results
[02:40] The real currency – Why trust beats likability.
[05:36] Cheerleading vs. critical thinking – the likability/results balance.
[06:40] Trust as a strategic lever in career growth.

Building Relationships and Trust
[07:12] Likability in context – when it matters most.
[11:46] Relationship-building tips from new team onboarding.
[13:15] Empathy and respect > expertise when entering a new role.
[15:13] Real-world example: breaking down silos with newsroom stakeholders.

Practical Tips for Product Managers
[17:57] Use empathy to engage stakeholders.
[20:26] "Trust is earned, not given."
[21:16] Get feedback early—don’t wait for the performance review.

The Balance of Likability and Integrity
[21:16] Why over-indexing on likability can backfire.
[23:59] Integrity, not image – what carries you through hard times.
[25:13] Transparency and owning mistakes build deeper trust.

Takeaways and Closing Remarks
[30:01] Be vulnerable – it’s a strength, not a weakness.
[30:29] Avoid chasing the wrong signals—focus on trust and impact.
[31:30] Likability is subjective—impact isn’t.
[32:03] Wrap-up and invitation to reflect on your own likability mindset.

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