I want to go through the path of becoming a PM - that includes CAPM cert, getting hired for the PM position to get the experience, and then PMP.
As much as I try not to be in my head to much, I am trying to clarify the scope of how I will get myself in to a PM position. For the past 11 years, I have been working with logistics and freight forwarding. That is all I really know.
The CLOSEST job title I can see in relation to a PM position has been either a Logistics PM or a Logistics Coordinator. I am not too sure what other position in this application would be related or how I can utilize PM skills in.
If I need to venture off to a different application, what should I consider and how smoothly can I make that happen? I have no real background in IT, construction, or healthcare. This limitation to these common applications has me feeling a bit concerned.
Should I continue focusing on PM work or should I start gaining more knowledge more towards Logistics and Supply Chain Management? I prefer to stick within my application as clearly 11 years experience is just that. I am not sure how possible it is to start fresh in another application would be and what kind of salary or position I would look for.
Any advice or insight is greatly appreciated. I know majority of you come from different applications more related to PM work. Saving Changes...
Senior Projects Manager | Field & Marten AssociatesNew Westminster, British Columbia, Canada
A project manager doesn't need to be a technical expert but should have the minimum level of technical knowledge. However, he should be an expert in project management. Starting as a project cordinator is the best way to put your foot inside the door. Good Luck ! Saving Changes...
Makes sense and I think I need to wrap my head around that concept. If I focus on mastering and having a strong foundation understanding with PM work, then I am probably in good shape.
I will solely search for project coordinator positions and see what is out there. If I can get lucky to get my foot in for a Jr. PM working under a Sr. than that would be ideal.
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2 replies by Kevin Drake and Rami Kaibni
Apr 30, 2018 2:28 PM
Rami Kaibni
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Michael - It takes time to master the project management and that comes by experience. Starting as a Jr. PM will put you under pressure and you will end up frustrated.
The best advise I can give to you is to work on getting your CAPM (It will give you the right knowledge base) & find a PC Post (It will give you hands on experience).
Apr 30, 2018 2:37 PM
Kevin Drake
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I second Rami with that. Whenever I want to enter a new area, I just enter from Project coordinator and in one to two years I am up and running for a higher position.
Saving Changes...
Dinah YoungProject Manager / Software Asset Manager| Prince William CountySpringfield, Va, United States
Are there any opportunities at your current company to move into more of a project coordinator/project manager role? Saving Changes...
I am sure that your organization executes projects to improve business activities. Have you considered asking to be on a project as a Subject Matter Expert. You would see how projects are executed and network with project management professionals. Exposure can yield results. I would encourage you to find a local PMI chapter and attend a meeting. There may be people there who could provide some solid advice and introductions. Saving Changes...
Senior Projects Manager | Field & Marten AssociatesNew Westminster, British Columbia, Canada
Apr 30, 2018 2:16 PM
Replying to Michael Brian
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Rami -
Makes sense and I think I need to wrap my head around that concept. If I focus on mastering and having a strong foundation understanding with PM work, then I am probably in good shape.
I will solely search for project coordinator positions and see what is out there. If I can get lucky to get my foot in for a Jr. PM working under a Sr. than that would be ideal.
Michael - It takes time to master the project management and that comes by experience. Starting as a Jr. PM will put you under pressure and you will end up frustrated.
The best advise I can give to you is to work on getting your CAPM (It will give you the right knowledge base) & find a PC Post (It will give you hands on experience).
Makes sense and I think I need to wrap my head around that concept. If I focus on mastering and having a strong foundation understanding with PM work, then I am probably in good shape.
I will solely search for project coordinator positions and see what is out there. If I can get lucky to get my foot in for a Jr. PM working under a Sr. than that would be ideal.
I second Rami with that. Whenever I want to enter a new area, I just enter from Project coordinator and in one to two years I am up and running for a higher position.
I will focus my searches on coordinator positions whether it's project coordinator or logistics coordinator.
To answer the question above - My company station is very small. We have 2 operations managers (domestic, international) 1 international ops agent, three domestic agents for inbound/outbound, the director, sales guy, and 2 warehouse personnel. NO room for growth.
Our company stations across the US and in other countries are much larger. Each station is ran by an individual GM (sort of like a franchise) and how they run ops is different in some ways. Some stations actually do have Logistics coordinators or even PM titles. Unfortunately our station is tiny. Saving Changes...
Elizabeth HarrinDirector| RebelsGuideToPM.comLondon, England, United Kingdom
I don't have much to add - I just wanted to say good luck with your job search and don't give up! Keep applying for jobs and looking for ways to use your PM skills in your current job while you are looking for your next move. That will give you something to talk about in interview. Saving Changes...
I always advise people that ask similar questions to find any projects within their company that they can get into, that is a common way to enter project management. This is a safe and easy way to "try out" project management rather than going for jobs where you have little experience and will have tough competition. Saving Changes...
Michael - It takes time to master the project management and that comes by experience. Starting as a Jr. PM will put you under pressure and you will end up frustrated.
The best advise I can give to you is to work on getting your CAPM (It will give you the right knowledge base) & find a PC Post (It will give you hands on experience).
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