Hey Readers,
This time, a short article. Just a quick reflection, and a quiet rebellion. But maybe the video here will make up for it.
I’ve never managed anyone. On purpose.
In over a decade of working across continents, cross-functional teams, and complex products, not once have I had someone “report” to me.
No one filling in performance reviews. No Slack message saying, “Hey, quick leave approval?”
Not because I’m allergic to accountability.
Because I don’t believe hierarchy is the highest form of leadership.
I choose mentoring over managing
I’ve seen it too often: people becoming “managers” and immediately switching to spreadsheet mode. Metrics. Meetings. Micro-strategy.
Meanwhile, the real influence is happening elsewhere-in the quiet nudges, the thought partnerships, the 1:1s that don’t involve HR.
Mentoring gets underestimated because it’s not structured. But it’s the backbone of every good team I’ve worked with.
I lead without permission slips
I’ve led products. I’ve steered strategy. I’ve turned around initiatives that were circling the drain.
All without owning a single headcount.
Leadership without the badge is possible. And powerful.
It forces you to lead with clarity, not control. With trust, not titles.
Will I ever manage people?
Maybe. Who knows.
But I won’t wear the title unless I can do it on my terms. No empire-building. No performance theater. Just deep work and shared outcomes.
P.S. Until then, I’m enjoying the freedom that comes from choosing influence over hierarchy. My DMs are open if you think I can mentor you, or if you’re rethinking the manager path altogether.
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Hi, I drive Innovation, Strategy & Growth Through Product Leadership. In case if you're looking for a product leader who challenges the status quo, fosters innovation, and delivers tangible business value, let’s connect
Until next post,
Sanghamitra
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