How to Become a Project Manager

HOW TO BECOME A PROJECT MANAGER

Are you considering a career change to project management but do not know where to start? Becoming a Project Manager may not be as challenging as you would expect! In this blog we will discuss different ways to become a Project Manager (PM) and share some helpful resources to support your interest in this career change.

1. LEARN ABOUT PROJECT MANAGEMENT ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Before you decide that a career in project management is definitely for you, make sure you have a good understanding of the roles and responsibilities of a Project Manager to make sure it actually interests you. Here are some ideas to help you learn more about the responsibilities of a Project Manager:

Shadow a PM in your organisation.
Read different articles written by PMs about their experiences. The APM website has many different blogs written by experts in the profession.
Here are some links to start your research:
Listen to podcasts and watch YouTube videos by more professional experts.
- https://www.apm.org.uk/resources/the-apm-podcast/

2. INVEST IN YOUR SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

Now that you have a good understanding (and are still interested), it is time to invest in your skills and qualifications. Here are some project management qualifications to consider, depending upon your career aspirations and existing skill level.

The APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ)
- https://www.plprojects.co.uk/training-services/project-fundamentals-qualification/
- https://www.apm.org.uk/qualifications-and-training/project-management-fundamentals/
The APM Project Management Qualification (PMQ)
- https://www.plprojects.co.uk/training-services/project-management-qualification/
- https://www.apm.org.uk/qualifications-and-training/project-management-qualification/
Prince 2 Qualification
- https://www.prince2.com/uk
Other qualifications!
- https://www.apm.org.uk/qualifications-and-training/

3. BEGIN TO MAKE THE TRANSITION INTO THE PROJECT MANAGEMENT PROFESSION

Making a career change, regardless of the profession, can be difficult depending on career market circumstances. We are not suggesting you leave your current role either! You might realise after researching the profession that you perform many different project management responsibilities already. The project management profession is growing, and more companies are considering promoting their current staff into these new project management opportunities. Talk to your manager and see what opportunities you can be a part of to develop your project management skillset.