When I lost my job a while ago, I was initially broken and shattered. Only for a day or two. Soon after, I began contemplating how I could leverage my existing skills for my next career move. Unlike those fortunate enough to possess technical expertise in fields like software development, I realized I needed to explore the realm of transferable skills and their applicability to the in-demand jobs of 2024. With newfound time for introspection, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery, considering alternative paths.
My previous roles – account manager of a luxury hotel chain, art manager at an art gallery, event manager at a restaurant and office administrative assistant role equipped me with such skills as organization, accountability, effective communication to complete various projects, be it coordinating an exhibition or planning a press trip.
A project is a series of tasks that need to be completed to reach a desired outcome. It’s a unique endeavour, a temporary pursuit, carefully planned out to reach a particular goal.
Moreover, I realized that my involvement in personal projects outside of work, whether it was planning a family vacation, moving to another country and even finding a job had something in common: they all required skills in coordination, organization and leadership — they are all project management skills that are at the core of the project manager‘s role.
Project management is the application of knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques to meet the project requirements and achieve the desired outcome.
Why project management?
The project management field is continually growing with the Project Management Institute predicting 2.3 million new project oriented jobs each year through 2030.
In 2024, project management emerges as an increasingly compelling career path for several reasons. Firstly, in a world characterized by rapid technological advancement and evolving business landscapes, skilled project managers are indispensable. They possess the ability to navigate complexity, streamline processes, and ensure successful project delivery within budget and schedule constraints. Secondly, with the rise of remote work and global collaboration, adept project managers adept at fostering cohesive teams across diverse locations are in high demand. Moreover, as organizations prioritize efficiency and innovation, project management expertise becomes pivotal for driving strategic initiatives and achieving long-term objectives. In essence, in the dynamic and competitive landscape of 2024, pursuing a career in project management offers both stability and the opportunity for professional growth and impact.
What are Project Management skills you’ll need to become a PM?
- Clear Communication
- Accountability
- Adaptability
- Creativity
- Decisiveness
- Leadership
- Problem Solving
- Strategic Thinking
- Stress Management
- Time Management
It goes without saying that in addition to soft skills, you’ll need to learn or project management hard skills. They are:
- Project planning
- Budget management
- Organization
- Writing
- Goal setting
- Delelegation
So what’s next? How to become a project manager
To set yourself on the path to becoming a project manager, the next step involves proactive measures to build your expertise and credentials. Begin by connecting with practicing project managers within your network or through professional platforms like LinkedIn. Engage in meaningful conversations to glean insights, seek advice on career trajectories, and understand the essential skills and qualities required for success in the field. These connections offer valuable mentorship opportunities and guidance as you progress.
Seeking formal training is crucial for developing the foundational knowledge and skills required of a project manager. Pursuing a mentorship with an experienced project manager can provide personalized guidance and support as you navigate your career path. Additionally, consider obtaining a project management certificate from reputable institutions or organizations. These certificates validate your expertise and demonstrate your commitment to the profession, enhancing your credibility in the eyes of employers and peers.
Finally, consider pursuing certification as a Project Management Professional (PMP) through the Project Management Institute (PMI). The PMP certification is globally recognized and signifies a high level of competence and proficiency in project management practices. Achieving PMP certification further solidifies your credentials and opens doors to advanced career opportunities in project management.
By following these steps, from researching and networking to seeking mentorship, training, and certification, you can lay a solid foundation for a successful career as a project manager.
The good news is that there are many entry-level positions on the job market right now you can delve into before becoming a senior-level projects level. These roles you can pursue include:
- Junior Project Manager: Performs all aspects of being a project manager alongside a more experienced professional.
- Project Administrator: Assists the rest of the project team with administrative tasks.
- Project/Program Assistant: Supports team members working on a project and offers administrative support. May perform research or create training documents along with other jobs as assigned by program leaders.
- Project/Program Coordinator: Participates in hands-on project work and administrative tasks. Works under a project manager to make sure projects are completed on time and within budget.
- Project Support Specialist: Works alongside a project manager and team members to oversee assigned projects. May also be responsible for training and developing employees to perform designated tasks.
- Operations Assistant/Associate: Supports the daily operations of a business or organization. Duties may include providing administrative support, documentation and reporting, logistics and coordination, as well as process Improvement. Overall, operations assistant plays a crucial role in supporting the operational functions of an organization and contributing to its overall success.
Final thoughts
Armed with these insights, I took the plunge and enrolled in project management course. And let me tell you, it was one of the best decisions I ever made. Not only did I gain a deeper understanding of project management principles and methodologies, but I also acquired industry-recognized certifications that bolstered my credibility and marketability in the job market.
Project management resonated with me on a deep level, offering the perfect blend of challenge, fulfillment, and opportunity for growth. And as I embarked on my new career path, I knew that I was well-equipped to succeed, thanks to the skills and experiences I had accumulated along the way.
So, if you find yourself at a crossroads in your career, wondering if project management is the right path for you, I encourage you to take the leap. Tap into your transferable skills, leverage your past experiences, and consider enrolling in project management courses to take your career to new heights. Trust me, the journey may be challenging, but the rewards are well worth it.
