How to Get Started in Project Management

One of the most frequent questions we get asked is, “How do I get started in project management?”

Whether you are a recent high school or college graduate or a professional looking to switch careers, breaking into project management requires a combination of education, skills, experience, and networking. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to get started in the project management career field.

Project management is a dynamic and rewarding career field that offers opportunities to work in various industries and lead diverse projects around the globe. All industries benefit from trained, certified project managers. Research presented in the 2024 Pulse of the Profession report from the Project Management Institute (PMI)® shows that organizations employing higher-skilled project managers significantly outperform those that do not.

It's also no wonder why certified project managers are in hot demand. There are currently more than 16 million project managers delivering value worldwide, and according to the PMI’s® 2021 Talent Gap Report, employers will need nearly 88 million individuals in project management-oriented roles by 2027 globally. In the United States, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that project management is the fastest growing career field and estimates over 68,000 new project management jobs will be created every year for the next decade.

And it pays to get certified too! A 2024 study on global job trends by PMI showed the median salary increase for project professionals who earned the Project Management Professional (PMP)® certification is 33%. That increase is significantly higher in the United States at 44%!

Project Managers are found in across a variety of industries and professions.

The Role of the Project Manager

Project management involves using leadership, management skills, and industry knowledge to help teams achieve organizational goals by delivering valuable solutions. Project managers analyze the project’s context, guide the team through each phase, and serve as the main communication link. They convey strategic objectives to team members and report project status to upper management and stakeholders. This ensures that projects are completed on time, within budget, and meet quality standards. Their role is crucial for meeting organizational goals and delivering successful project outcomes.

1. Assess Your Interest and Aptitude

   Before diving into project management, assess your interest and aptitude for the role. Project management requires strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills. You should enjoy problem-solving, working with teams, and handling multiple tasks simultaneously.

   
   

2. Acquire Relevant Education

   While formal education is not always a prerequisite, having a relevant educational background can provide a solid foundation. Consider the following educational paths:

   • Certifications and Courses: Enroll in project management courses to gain foundational knowledge. Certifications such as the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)® and the Project Management Professional (PMP)® from the Project Management Institute (PMI)®, the world’s leading project management professional certification administrator, are excellent starting points.

   • Bachelor’s Degree: Degrees in business administration, management, engineering, or related fields are often beneficial. Some universities offer specialized programs in project management.

     
     

3. Develop Key Skills

   Project management requires a blend of hard and soft skills. Focus on developing the following key skills:

   • Leadership and Team Management: Learn how to lead, motivate, and manage project teams effectively.

   • Communication: Hone your ability to communicate clearly and persuasively with stakeholders at all levels.

   • Time Management: Master techniques for managing time and prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines.

   • Problem-solving and Critical Thinking: Develop strong analytical skills to identify issues and devise effective solutions.

   • Technical Proficiency: Familiarize yourself with project management software and tools, such as Microsoft Project, Asana, or Trello.

     
     

4. Gain Practical Experience

   Practical experience is crucial for a career in project management. Here are some ways to gain experience:

• Internships: Look for internships or entry-level positions that offer exposure to project management tasks such as the Project Specialist, Project Scheduler, Project Estimator, Project Controller, or Business Analyst.

• Volunteer Work: Volunteer to manage projects for non-profit organizations, community groups, or local events.

• On-the-Job Training: If you are already employed, seek opportunities to participate in or lead projects within your current role.

1. PMI® Professional Certifications

   Certifications are valuable credentials that demonstrate your expertise and commitment to project management. Consider obtaining the following certifications:

   • Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)®: An entry-level certification from PMI that validates your understanding of project management principles. The CAPM® certification is a great place to start for those with no or limited experience.

   • Project Management Professional (PMP)®: A globally recognized certification from PMI for experienced project managers.

   • Agile Certifications: Certifications such as Disciplined Agile Scrum Master (DASM)® and the Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP)® for those interested or experienced in Agile methodologies.

     
     

2. Network with Professionals

   Networking is essential for career growth in project management. Join professional organizations such as PMI® and the local PMI® Chapter, attend industry conferences, and participate in local project management meetups. Networking helps you stay updated on industry trends, find mentors, and discover job opportunities.

   
   

3. Leverage Online Resources

   There are numerous online resources available to help you learn and grow in project management. Some recommended resources include:

   • Webinars and Podcasts: Follow webinars and podcasts by industry experts, such as Projectified Podcast®, to gain insights and stay updated on best practices.

   • Books and Blogs: Read books and follow blogs by renowned project managers to deepen your knowledge such as PMI’s® ProjectManagement.com site.

     
     

4. Build a Strong Resume and Portfolio

   Create a resume that highlights your education, skills, certifications, and relevant experience. Additionally, develop a portfolio showcasing your completed projects, including project plans, reports, and any other relevant documentation. A strong resume and portfolio can make you stand out to potential employers.

   
   

5. Prepare for Job Interviews

   Prepare for project management job interviews by practicing common interview questions and scenarios. Be ready to discuss your experience, how you handle challenges, and your approach to managing projects. Highlight your problem-solving skills, ability to work under pressure, and examples of successful projects you have managed.

   
   

6. Continue Learning and Growing

   Project management is a continually evolving field. Stay committed to your professional development by:

   • Pursuing Advanced Certifications: Consider advanced PMI certifications such as Program Management Professional (PgPM)® or Portfolio Management Professional (PfMP)®.

   • Attending Workshops and Seminars: Participate in workshops and seminars to learn new techniques and methodologies and gain Professional Development Units (PDUs) to maintain your certifications.

   • Staying Updated on Industry Trends: Follow industry publications, blogs, and forums to stay informed about the latest trends and best practices in project management.

   
   

Conclusion

Starting a career in project management requires a combination of education, skill development, practical experience, and networking. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can build a strong foundation for a successful project management career. Remember that project management is not just about managing tasks and resources; it is about leading teams, solving problems, and delivering value to stakeholders. Stay curious, keep learning, and be proactive in seeking opportunities to grow and excel in this dynamic field.

If you are interested in becoming a project manager and getting certified, try our free assessment quiz and test your project management knowledge!

If you are ready to move forward with your certification journey, check out our schedule of upcoming courses! We hope to see you in a class soon.