Hi everyone! I want to start with a brief background, I am a computer science graduate with 6 years of Operations Management in a telecom company. I have recently started working as a Product Manager in a software company as I always wanted to work in IT because of my educational background. We develop web applications and the team consists of software developers who work with an Agile approach to software development.
I have never really planned my career till now and I have started to realize the downsides to that. I really want to pursue a career as a technical project manager as that aligns with my educational background and my work experience.
I would really appreciate any advice from new or experienced project managers on how to establish myself as a valuable project manager. Of course I need more experience in project management but what else can I do to supplement my experience.
I have seen a lot of well-paying jobs which require PMP, so I am guessing certifications would help me learn core PM skills and also add value to my resume. But there are a number of PM related certifications like CSM, PSM, PMP, PRINCE2, PMI-ACP etc. and since they require time, money and effort, I want to make sure that all these valuable resources are well-spent and the certification positively contributes to my career.
So, what do you say? Should I pursue certifications? If yes, which one? Saving Changes...
Senior Projects Manager | Field & Marten AssociatesNew Westminster, British Columbia, Canada
Feb 21, 2019 12:45 AM
Replying to Khurram Shahzad
...
Thank you so much for your feedback, Rami :)
You’re welcome Khurram Saving Changes...
Tamer Zeyad SadiqAssistant Cost Manager| Turner & TownsendRiyadh, Ar Riyad, Saudi Arabia
PMP is the best one
...
1 reply by Khurram Shahzad
Feb 22, 2019 5:25 AM
Khurram Shahzad
...
Yes, that definitely seems the case. Thanks for sharing your view.
Saving Changes...
LORI WILSONRETIRED - Technical Project Manager| RETIRED - LifePoint HealthClarkston, Wa, United States
In my experience, PMP is often more easily recognized in the business world than some other project management certifications, but all certifications are important and show initiative and a thirst for knowledge.
...
1 reply by Khurram Shahzad
Feb 22, 2019 5:33 AM
Khurram Shahzad
...
PMP is surely a popular certification. One certification to rule them all, so to speak. This could definitely be a starting point for me. Maybe along the way I could get into Agile specific certifications.
In my experience, PMP is often more easily recognized in the business world than some other project management certifications, but all certifications are important and show initiative and a thirst for knowledge.
PMP is surely a popular certification. One certification to rule them all, so to speak. This could definitely be a starting point for me. Maybe along the way I could get into Agile specific certifications.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts :) Saving Changes...
Archana ChoudharyProject Manager| Deutsche BankJacksonville, FL, United States
Hi Khurram,
All certifications are important but below three may fit best for you. You may need to deeply analyze which one would you like to pursue based on your current scenario:
1. PMP - is often considered one of the most prestigious project management certifications and desired by many employers seeking highly-skilled management professionals. This credential demonstrates an in-depth knowledge of all aspects of project management, including time, budget and scope, as well as strategic planning, risk management, and communication.
2. PMI-ACP : As PMI’s fastest-growing certification, an Agile Certified Practitioner is a diversified certification that covers many aspects of agile including Kanaban, Lean, Scrum, extreme programming, and test-driven development. This certification is for those who work on agile teams or whose companies are moving to agile principles.
3. The CSM is offered by Scrum Alliance, and geared toward project managers looking to lead teams that utilize Scrum, an agile framework for completing complex projects. The CSM is an entry-level certification that demonstrates a working knowledge of Scrum principles and methods. If you would like to move forward into Agile as a Scrum Master, this may be the course for you as an entry point.
...
1 reply by Khurram Shahzad
Feb 25, 2019 2:20 AM
Khurram Shahzad
...
Thanks Archana for your comprehensive answer. Its nice to see all these different points of view.
Hi Khurram,
All certifications are important but below three may fit best for you. You may need to deeply analyze which one would you like to pursue based on your current scenario:
1. PMP - is often considered one of the most prestigious project management certifications and desired by many employers seeking highly-skilled management professionals. This credential demonstrates an in-depth knowledge of all aspects of project management, including time, budget and scope, as well as strategic planning, risk management, and communication.
2. PMI-ACP : As PMI’s fastest-growing certification, an Agile Certified Practitioner is a diversified certification that covers many aspects of agile including Kanaban, Lean, Scrum, extreme programming, and test-driven development. This certification is for those who work on agile teams or whose companies are moving to agile principles.
3. The CSM is offered by Scrum Alliance, and geared toward project managers looking to lead teams that utilize Scrum, an agile framework for completing complex projects. The CSM is an entry-level certification that demonstrates a working knowledge of Scrum principles and methods. If you would like to move forward into Agile as a Scrum Master, this may be the course for you as an entry point.
Thanks Archana for your comprehensive answer. Its nice to see all these different points of view. Saving Changes...
rosario accardoDott. Ing.| Microsoft italyCologno Monzese, Italy
I suggest strongly PMP Certification about the possibility to grow your career and your knoledge. I suggest a lot of dedition to study almost 4 moths
...
1 reply by Khurram Shahzad
Feb 26, 2019 12:39 AM
Khurram Shahzad
...
Hi rosario, thanks for sharing. Have you achieved your PMP? If so, how many hours did you study per day (I'm assuming you have a full time job as well)?