A Guide for Aspiring Project Managers
Project management presents an attractive opportunity for individuals seeking a career transition or entry into the lucrative IT industry. In contrast to numerous IT roles, it does not necessitate extensive technical skills, making it an accessible path for individuals with diverse backgrounds and expertise. Nevertheless, landing your initial role in this field poses its own set of challenges. This article explores the crucial skills and educational prerequisites for project management, providing practical advice on how to become a project manager and initiate a career in this dynamic industry.
In-Demand Project Management Skills
A Project Manager (PM) is a skilled professional assigned to comprehensively manage projects across diverse industries, containing the entire project lifecycle. In addition to proficiency in project management tools and technical expertise, modern PMs must combine leadership and business skills to plan, organize, and supervise project execution effectively.
The Pulse of the Profession 2020 report reveals that the most sought-after skills for Project Managers are technical (68%), leadership (65%), business (58%), and digital (50%). Let’s take a closer look at each of them:
- Technical skills: PMs should have them to oversee the technical aspects of a project. These skills include project management methodologies, such as Agile, Waterfall, and Scrum, and special tools like MS Project, Jira, and Asana. If a PM works in specific fields, such as design, having knowledge of dedicated project management tools for creatives is also necessary.
- Leadership skills: They are essential for PMs, allowing them to motivate, inspire, and guide their teams to achieve project goals. PMs should be excellent communicators and be able to resolve conflicts effectively.
- Business skills: PMs should understand business principles such as finance, marketing, and sales to make informed decisions about project scope, budget, and resource allocation. Lerna Courses notes, “A project manager combines industry knowledge with administrative skills to do their job.” They also have to think strategically and manage project risks.
- Digital skills: PMs should be proficient in various digital tools, such as project management software, collaboration tools, and communication platforms.
Key Considerations for Project Management Career
Here are some factors to consider when deciding if project management is the appropriate professional choice for you:
- Interests and personality: Project management demands interpersonal skills. This role might align with your interests if you enjoy working with people and solving problems.
- Skills and experience: Previous project or team management experience is a plus. This career path is a good choice if you coordinate tasks and communicate effectively.
- Career goals: If you want to contribute to the success of an initiative, project management may be right for you. You will lead projects from initiation to completion in this role, influencing their outcomes.
- Desired lifestyle: PMs often work long hours and are under pressure. If you are willing to put in the hard work, then project management can be a rewarding career.
- Desired salary: PMs can earn good salaries. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the average salary for project managers in the United States is $95,370 per year as of 2022. But be prepared that starting salaries are typically lower than for other professional positions.
Degree for Project Management Career
While there is no single, universally accepted path to a project management career, pursuing a relevant academic degree can provide a significant advantage. According to Zippia, 68% of project managers hold a bachelor’s degree, while 14% possess a master’s degree.
Several degrees can provide you with the necessary foundation for this field:
- Bachelor’s/Master’s degree in Project Management provides a comprehensive understanding of project management principles, methodologies, and tools. You will delve into project planning, execution, monitoring, and evaluation.
- Bachelor’s/Master’s degree in Business Administration or Management offers a broader understanding of business principles, organizational behavior, and financial management, all crucial aspects of successful project management.
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Technology can provide you with a solid foundation in specific industries, such as construction, manufacturing, or IT. This will allow you to manage technically complex projects.
- Professional certifications beyond academic degrees can enhance your credibility. Noteworthy certifications include Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), and Certified ScrumMaster (CSM).
Tips for Becoming a Project Manager
While possessing the required degree and certifications is a solid foundation, there are additional steps you can take to stand out in the competitive project management landscape. To enhance your profile and increase your chances of success, consider the following steps on how to become a project manager.
- Develop your Project Management Skills: PMs need diverse skills to succeed, including communication, problem-solving, organization, time management, and leadership. You can develop them by taking online courses and attending workshops.
- Network with Project Management Professionals: They can share experiences on how to get a project manager job and provide mentorship opportunities. Attend industry events and leverage online platforms like LinkedIn to expand your network.
- Volunteer or Take on Internships: These activities allow you to apply your project management skills in real-world settings. This experience will help you build your portfolio and demonstrate your capabilities to potential employers.
- Tailor your Resume and Portfolio: Emphasize your ability to successfully plan, execute, and deliver projects.
- Prepare for Project Management Interviews: Meeting with a potential employer often includes scenario-based questions to assess your problem-solving and decision-making abilities, so be ready.
- Apply for Entry-level Positions: Consider seeking project coordinator, project support specialist, or junior project manager roles.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a project manager is challenging, yet it comes with its own set of rewards. The role involves handling complex tasks, managing a variety of personalities, and meeting tough deadlines. Despite the difficulties, the sense of fulfillment derived from completing projects is unmatched.
It is essential to recognize that excelling in this career requires ongoing learning, adapting to changing trends, and mastering new tools and techniques. How to become a project manager involves putting in these efforts so that you can attain the desired outcomes in project management.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How long does it take to become a project manager?
Answer: This time varies depending on your educational background, work experience, and career goals. However, gaining the necessary skills and knowledge takes 1–5 years to qualify for project manager positions. Of course, other factors can impact the time it takes to become a PM. Some people are naturally better at project management than others, for example, if they have strong organizational and communication skills.
Q2. What qualifications do you need to be a project manager?
Answer: While no strict qualifications are set, a project manager degree or diploma in a related field is beneficial. However, academic qualifications alone may not suffice. Practical experience plays a pivotal role in shaping a successful PM, and acquiring relevant certifications is a crucial qualification for individuals aiming to excel in project management.
Q3. Give five ultimate steps on how to become a project manager.
Answer: Here are practical steps to help you embark on your project management journey:
- Consider an academic degree and professional certification.
- Gain experience through internships or volunteer opportunities.
- Network with PMs and attend industry events.
- Create a resume and a portfolio that showcase your skills.
- Apply for a job.
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