In a world where businesses and organizations run on projects, the demand for project managers is at an all time high. For many, the question is, "how to become a project manager?" If this is the career path that interests you, read on to discover the steps you can take to become a project manager, even if you don't have any prior experience.
The primary role of a project manager is to oversee all aspects of a project. This includes planning, execution, monitoring, control, and closure. They are accountable for the success or failure of a project, making strategic decisions that affect the project's direction and outcome. The project manager coordinates the work of the project team and interacts with stakeholders to ensure that everyone is working towards the same goals. Fundamentally Project managers are problem solvers.
Related Article: Problem Solving Applied to Project Management
The field of project management is diverse, allowing project managers to specialize in different areas. Some project managers are generalists, managing projects across various industries. Others choose to specialize in specific fields, such as IT, construction, healthcare, or marketing. The type of project manager you choose to become will depend on your interests, skills, and career goals.
The salary of a project manager can vary greatly based on factors such as experience, industry, and location. However, according to a 2021 report by the Project Management Institute (PMI), the median annual salary for project managers in the U.S. is $115,000.
Becoming a project manager is a multi-step process that involves gaining relevant skills and experience, and possibly obtaining a certification. Here are the main steps to consider:
The skills for project managers varies by specialization. Before you embark on a career in project management, take some time to evaluate the skills you already possess. You might have gained some project management experience in your current or past jobs without even realizing it. If you've ever led a team, managed a budget, made a schedule, or reported on a project's progress, you've already done some aspects of project management. Recognizing and leveraging these existing skills can give you a head start on your journey to becoming a project manager.
As mentioned earlier, project managers can specialize in different fields. By choosing a specialization, you can focus your learning and gain experience in a specific area, making you more attractive to employers within that industry. Your choice of specialization will depend on your interests, background, and career goals.
Although not always a requirement, having a project management certification can greatly increase your chances of landing a job. The Project Management Institute (PMI) offers several certifications, including the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) and the Project Management Professional (PMP). These certifications are recognized worldwide and can help you stand out in a competitive job market. You can also always start with the Google project management Certificate or other courses on Coursera. A lean Sigma Six Certification can be beneficial to project managers as well depending on their specialization.
Gaining practical experience in project management is crucial. This can involve taking on more responsibilities in your current job, volunteering for projects in your community, or even managing personal projects. The key is to get hands-on experience in planning, executing, and overseeing projects.
There are certain skills that are essential for project managers. These include risk management, budgeting, communication, leadership, and organization. You can develop these skills through formal training, self-study, or on-the-job experience.
Related Article: How To Write a Problem Statement (With an Example)
Networking can open doors to opportunities that you might not find otherwise. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with other project managers online. These connections can provide valuable advice, mentorship, and job opportunities.
Related Article: Expanding your Professional Circle
As you gain experience and skills in project management, make sure to update your resume. Highlight your project management skills, certifications, and successful projects. Remember, your resume is your ticket to job interviews, so make it as compelling as possible.
If you're just starting out in project management, consider applying for entry-level positions. These might include roles such as project coordinator or junior project manager. These positions can provide valuable experience and a stepping stone to more senior roles.
In addition to the CAPM and PMP certifications, there are other credentials that can boost your career in project management. For example, if you work in an Agile environment, you might consider the PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP) certification. The credential you choose will depend on your career goals and the requirements of your industry.
If you are enjoying this article please share it with a friend or on social media because this expands Acquired Salary's reach which is important to helping allow us to continue to keep making free valuable content.
The certification you choose will depend on your experience, career goals, and the industry you want to work in. The CAPM is a good choice for beginners, while the PMP is ideal for experienced project managers. If you work in an Agile environment, consider the PMI-ACP or a Scrum-related certification.
If you're interested in becoming a project manager, there's no better time to start than now. Begin by identifying the skills you already have, choosing a specialization, and learning about the certification options available. Remember, becoming a project manager is a journey that requires continuous learning and development.
Google offers a Professional Certificate in Project Management, which is designed to prepare individuals for an entry-level role in project management. The program is part of Google's Career Certificates initiative, which provides job-ready skills to start or advance your career in high-demand fields.
The job outlook for project managers is positive. According to the PMI, employers will need to fill 2.3 million project management-oriented roles each year until 2030. The demand for project managers is expected to be particularly high in industries such as software development, construction, and information services.
The time it takes to become a project manager can vary. It depends on factors such as your educational background, previous work experience, and the time you invest in gaining project management skills and certifications.
While many project managers have a degree, it's not always a requirement. Relevant work experience and project management certifications can also be valuable. However, having a degree in a field related to project management can give you a competitive edge.
Career Mastery Community
How to get a promotion in less than 90 days and learn the 3 pillars to increase your Salary by 30% or more.
Ready to take your career to the next level?
Learn even more about successfully developing your career without going back to school. Click the button to join Acquired Salary's Career Mastery Mastermind!
Career coaches assess skills and values to align them with suitable career paths. They offer strategic advice on job search activities, including crafting compelling resumes and cover letters. Career coaches can also assist with overcoming workplace challenges and fostering professional development.
If you find yourself feeling stuck, unfulfilled, or uncertain about your career path, a career coach can provide valuable insights and strategies to help you make informed decisions. Whether you're considering a career change, seeking professional growth, or looking to improve your job search techniques, a career coach can be a valuable partner in your journey to success.
The duration of career coaching varies depending on your unique circumstances and objectives. Some clients find value in a few focused sessions, while others choose ongoing support over an extended period. Your career coach will work with you to determine the most suitable timeframe and frequency of sessions to ensure maximum benefit.
There are benefits to both salary and hourly. The benefits of having a salary is the security of steady paychecks and on average salary employees tend to have a higher income than hourly employees.
When you have employees who are getting paid salary they are usually more productive if they are paid right. That is why salary negotiations are much more important. A salary increase plays a crucial role in productivity.
When negotiating salary there are mutliple ways you can be productive. These can include: becoming familiar with your industry, staying positive, practice, and more.