Follow Up

 

Instead of starting another blog discussing the differences in the results of my job search both before and after achieving PMP status, I have started a blog on another site that focuses on job hunting irrespective of profession.  I may still write about my efforts to maintain my credential, but I thought I would add one last discussion to this post about the impact of the PMP on my job search.

A friend recently asked me if, given the current state of the economy and job market, getting the PMP was worth it.  My response was that if he intends to look for a job as a PM, the majority of the people he would be competing with would either be PMPs or preparing for the exam, making it worth it now more than ever.

The PMP credential is not the only factor, though.

While I was preparing for the exam I had the opportunity to meet with one of the principal's of a consulting firm.  Based on our discussion and my resume I was asked to meet with one of the other principal's and from there met with the lead PM on a project they were hiring another PM for.  If California had been able to get its budget worked out I would have had a new job.  The PMP was a factor, even though I did not have it yet, but it wasn't what would have gotten me hired.

A month after passing the exam the company I was working went through a few rounds of layoffs.  The PMP did not save me.  One of my co-workers, who did not have his PMP, was not laid off, but my boss and her boss both knew I was looking for a new job and better pay which influenced their decision to let me go.  It didn't make sense to keep me and let my co-worker go if I was going to be leaving the company, soon, anway.

It wasn't long after that when I was contacted by a recruiter and began interviewing for a contract-to-hire position.  It was the combination of the PMP, education, and experience that got the recruiters attention, initially.  Having a friend at the company helped, too.  I don't like blowing my own horn, but in both circumstances it was connecting with the interviewers and having good interviews that made the difference.

I would have had the second job, but my wife and I decided to relocate.  I have since been hired as a PM, and the PMP is probably one of the factors that got me the initial interview, but the PMP by itself wasn't enough.

So, back to my original point - the PMP can help get you in the door, but the rest is up to you.

My final advice:  get your PMP, understand project management (that can be 2 different things), understand the industry you want to work in, demonstrate that you are able to work well with and relate to others, and get any other education and experience you need.  Doing this will help you both get a job as a PM and grow in your profession.

Good luck!