According to PMI, the demand for project managers is growing faster than demand for workers in other occupations and expected to grow over the next several years. The global economy has become more project oriented as the practice of project management expands. Click here to view the article.
Based on predictions, there will be a shortage of qualified talent. As a result, new opportunities may be available for those interested in pursuing a career in project management. If that’s you or someone you know, this post will provide insight into the profession. It will include details about the role, skills required to succeed, career tips and other considerations before taking the leap.
Let’s start with the basics. What is project management? PMI defines project management as the application of knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques to project activities to meet the project requirements. The primary challenge of project management is to achieve all of the project goals within the given constraints.
How is this accomplished? This is where the Project Manager comes in. Project managers play the lead role in planning, executing, monitoring, controlling and closing projects. They are accountable for the entire project scope, project team, resources, and the success or failure of the project.
Project Management professionals must be organized, results oriented and have a thorough understanding of the business case, challenges and potential risks to increase the rate of success.
The list below displays 15 essential skills for effective project management:
- Leadership
- Strategic Planning
- Business Agility
- Organization
- Communications
- Facilitation
- Business Management
- Time Management
- Budget Management
- Risk Management
- Change Management
- Critical Thinking
- Decision Making
- Negotiation
- Technical
Is a career in project management right for you? Villanova University provides insight for the undecided. The article can be found on the institution’s website.
There’s a plethora of information and training options available to learn more about the occupation. The Wrike team recommends 5 Project Management books for beginners and accidental PMs. Click here to view the list.
If you are new to the profession, PMI offers tips for a good start.
As a seasoned Project Management Professional, I can attest to the challenges and rewards of the profession. It allows me to use God-given talents and aligns with my professional objectives. I enjoy the diversity of the work, continuous learning opportunities, engagement with stakeholders along with many other benefits.
The role is not for everyone. Becoming a Project Manager allows you to develop a variety of transferable skills that lead to new opportunities and advantages. With this being said, every career has it’s pros and cons. PM responsibilities can be demanding and very stressful at times. In my case, the rewards have outweighed disadvantages. However, you have to determine if its a professional fit.
In the world of project management, you should expect the best, plan for the worst and prepare to be surprised as Denis Whitley once said.
With gratitude,
References:
PMI (2017). Project Management Job Growth and Talent Gap 2017–2027.
Gadeken, O. C. (2009). So you’re the new project manager: tips for a good start. Paper presented at PMI® Global Congress 2009—North America, Orlando, FL. Newtown Square, PA: Project Management Institute.
https://www.pmi.org/about/learn-about-pmi/what-is-project-management
https://www.cio.com/article/3224865/what-is-a-project-manager-the-lead-role-for-project-success.html
I often wondered, if I am a Project Manager, but at a very small scale. Meaning, I have planned projects and see them come to fruition, like for church fellowships or other curriculum activities. However, I do believe the type of PMI you are referring to is indeed at a professional level, which is not my niche. ☺️
Great info!!