Global Product Management is more than delivering features across borders—it’s about understanding people, cultures, and context. As the product world expands internationally, product managers must learn to adapt, lead, and communicate effectively across cultures.
Dean Peters, a seasoned coach with over 20 years of experience, embodies this approach. His recent work in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, demonstrates the importance of cultural sensitivity in global product management. Through immersive learning experiences and a respect for local customs, Dean offers a new model for international product coaching.
Approaching Global Product Management in the East
As part of his commitment to global product management, Dean recently traveled to Saudi Arabia. He engaged with a group of dedicated product managers, imparting the principles of product management. His commitment to spreading knowledge goes far beyond regional boundaries, as later this year, he is set to teach optimal product management on an international scale. Dean’s track record includes leading agile product management cohort with participants residing in various corners of the world.
The experiences Dean encounters during these global teaching ventures serve as a testament to the importance of cultural understanding. He reflects on the numerous opportunities he’s been fortunate enough to have throughout his career, collaborating with and mentoring individuals from diverse backgrounds. These cross-cultural experiences highlight a core truth about global product management—without cultural sensitivity, even the best frameworks fall flat – if he fails to adapt his instruction to align with the culture, learning styles, language, business, sports, arts, and even the food preferences of his audience, success and execution remain unattainable. Dean highlights his belief that, as a product management coach and consultant, the key to reaching full potential goes hand in hand with taking time to understand your audience’s unique worldview.
A Refreshing, Human Approach to Global Product Management
Dean’s approach is refreshing, as it encourages the breaking of stereotypes. He stresses the importance of letting go of pre-conceived notions and the need to go beyond westernized comforts. He shared the value he found in embracing local culture, even if it means starting the day with breakfast choices like Medames and Dim Sum. Dean shares a clear message: embracing diversity and immersing oneself in the local culture, no matter how unconventional it may seem, is a crucial step toward fostering effective cross-cultural communication and success in the field of product management.
Hear more directly from Dean, talking about his recent experience overseas. To delve deeper into Dean’s experiences and insights, we encourage you to read his original LinkedIn Post HERE.
How do I teach product management outside of the U.S. without being the `Ugly American?` Perhaps it starts with enjoying Hummus & Dolmas for breakfast! As odd as that sounds, I think it’s important for those of us called to coach & consult to see the world through the eyes of those whom we instruct & advise. I’m in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia this week teaching some smart & hard-working product managers digital product management. Later this year, I’m teaching optimal product management abroad, and I recently I led a fantastic agile product management cohort with folks from around the planet.
These events remind me of similar experiences in my past, as I’ve been blessed throughout my 30-year career with opportunities to collaborate & mentor people around the globe. Awesome instances that taught me that if I don’t take the time to see my instruction through the lens of their culture, learning styles, language, businesses, sports, arts and culture … and food … then how can I expect them to succeed and execute on what I have to offer? The bottom line is, I can’t. And if that means not staying in Westernized hotels, not clinging to Americanized comforts, and yes … even if it sounds contrived … if it also means enjoying Medames or Dim Sum for breakfast, then bring it on!
BTW, the Dolmas & Hommos pictured above was SPECTACULARLY DELICIOUS!!! How about you? Why not share below in the comments? Oh, and if I’m in your time zone, let’s set up a call. If I’m in your city, let’s enjoy some coffee or tea … even if it’s not `Americano` style ????
Dean Peters serves as a shining example of the Productside’s commitment to fostering a global perspective in the field of product management. Embracing Diversity, adapting to new environments, and savoring unique experiences are essential facets of teaching and consulting in the ever-expanding world of product management.
Final Thoughts:
Global product management isn’t just about scaling features—it’s about scaling understanding. Dean Peters’ work highlights the need for cultural fluency, humility, and flexibility when teaching or coaching across borders. As product leaders, it’s time we lead with curiosity and serve with context.