Project management is a career choice that is in high demand today. More and more companies are looking for project managers to take their business to the next level, ensuring higher levels of quality while budget and time constraints are met and, in some cases, exceeded. Many larger organisations are so committed to improving their project management capabilities that they are taking on project management apprentices.
If you have decided that this is the career for you, read on to discover everything you need to know about launching your career in this challenging yet rewarding field.
What is the first step?
The first step when looking to launch your career in project management is to achieve one of the recognised project management qualifications that many employers look for. There are many different project management training courses available but the APM certifications are popular because they will now lead to chartered status in the profession. A good place to start is with the APM PFQ is you have no previous experience – you can then move onto a more advanced course at a later date if you want to progress your skills further.
Showcasing professional standards
Once you have achieved the certification you require, it is a good idea to get membership from one of the professional bodies in the industry, for example, the Association for Project Management (APM). By doing this, you show how dedicated you are about your role as a PM. Not only this, but you open up the door to further accreditation and continual professional development as well. This level of commitment is something that would impress employers across all industries.
Putting together a CV and preparing for interviews
The job hunting process can be very varied for an aspiring project manager. After all, you could be applying to a whole host of different companies in different industries – so widespread now is the need for project management capability. If you are applying to different industries it is pivotal that you make your cover letter unique for each application. You need to show why you are a good fit for that company and you need to demonstrate that you have done your research. It is also important to think of examples you can use throughout your interview that show how well you have led teams in the past. But remember project management is a profession in its own right so you don’t necessarily need specific industry experience to succeed as a project manager.
Embrace technology
Another important aspect for project managers today is technology. You have to have a grounding in the numerous disciplines of the teams you lead, and most teams today will be using technology to go about their tasks. Not only this, but technology will be pivotal to how you manage your team and your efficiency levels. You need to know how to source the best technology for your team so that everyone can communicate and collaborate successfully. Tech is such an integral part of the work environment today, and no project manager can afford to not be taking full advantage of it.
Hopefully, you now feel more prepared for launching your career in project management. As mentioned, this is a job that is very much in demand today, so it is certainly a good field to get involved in. Follow the steps that have been suggested, and you will give yourself the perfect platform for success.
