How to Become a High-Level Project Manager

Jose Roberto Cavalcante Alves is a project manager in Brazil.

  Career Development   Leadership  

Just as in any other profession, excellence takes time...and project management is no different. It requires dedication, hours of study and situations that you will only learn to cope with in practice (and are not necessarily linked to age, although maturity may be relevant). You are not required to experience certain situations and opportunities to obtain this level. However, you can and should be involved—and exceed your responsibilities—without obviously disrespecting hierarchies and other professionals.

Here are some tips on how to become a high-level project manager:

1. Keep in mind that to lead is to listen and not just talk. Listening allows you to capture relevant information that may affect projects positively or negatively.
2. Work with the team. It is the role of the manager to inspire people and make them owners of the project and responsible for its delivery.
3. Understand policy and observe behaviors. The project manager should act according to the ethics of the profession. Be an honest professional and open with stakeholders.
4. Take a risk. It is a fact that taking high-level risks causes fear and insecurity. But it can also bring high gains. You only know if you try. With a cohesive team at your side, this insecurity tends to decrease and you may see the true meaning of the expression "We are together."
5. Manage conflict and stress with…

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