Rachel MProject Manager| NoneRichmond, Va, United States
This is my first post! I am brand new to project management but have received my CAPM about a month ago in hopes of switching careers.
A family friend reached out to me and is looking for a PM for their established company of 6 employees. I would be their first PM, and by the sounds of it, they have no project management in place at all. The field is in high profile interactive 3D animation. I was previously a graphic designer, so this field sounds exciting to me.
I think they will hire me, and I think I could help get some organization in place with what I learned from getting my CAPM, but I'm pretty nervous. The future would look like managing 3 projects over the next 6 months.
Any ideas or help for someone in my situation?
Bonus question - Salary Related: I am entry-level and have a lot to learn, however it seems like a big challenge without much internal support/mentorship. When they ask what I want for salary what would you say is fair? See *Update #2.
*Update - I just got more info and it looks like they want me to hit the ground running. At least 1 big project that will take 6 - 12 months and the first meeting with the client is next Tuesday. They want me to be there. I haven't accepted the job yet. Yikes
*Update #2 - They want me to send an offer this morning. They wouldn't give me a range and said they had "no budget in mind" so I wrote this email below, what do you think?
"Thanks for taking the time to speak with me yesterday, XXXXX! I have spent some time considering the position and the situation. You have several barriers to organizational success on which I can help you.
This includes: • creating a custom management strategy that works for the team • assessing the current situation and observing the team’s natural response to tasks • building remote comradery and communication • nurturing projects and clients for success • defining projects, budgets, risks, and quality • monitoring and controlling the progress of projects, teammates, and management style • creating documents and reports for each task and a lessons learned file • maximizing all resources for future growth
I have looked over several data resources, and I have found that the market for this position can reach $103,000 a year based on my skillset and the data below.
Here are my sources: Glassdoor = $85,232 Richmond, VA (75% percentile) Indeed = $85,762 National Average PayScale = $80,560 Richmond, VA (75% percentile) PMI Annual National Salary Survey - See Attachment Page 302: Annualized Salary by Years Worked in Project Management US = $103,000
However, I am very eager to work with you guys, and I am willing to offer my service for: 35.82 per hour or 74,499 salaried
I also include healthcare costs because it won't be provided and a quick start date of November 24th. I also want to clarify that I am willing to negotiate as I understand each company has its budget. I am open to negotiating pay for expanded PTO, flexible hours, education in the field, or other ideas you might have, even if specified for the future. However, if this number is good with you, I’m on board!
I should mention I am currently speaking with two other companies interested in hiring me, but you’re my top pick, so let me know. I am looking forward to your reply and again, thank you so much for the opportunity!" Saving Changes...
Peter RapinSubject Matter Expect; Project Delivery| Independent ConsultantOntario, Canada
I'll respond much the same as my response to another query relating to implementing project management in a small company:
The first question is WHY. Why does the company want to implement project management? What is the problem they are looking for a solution to? Once you know the why it becomes easier to lay out a path the get there.
They obviously are doing some things right in order to stay in business but they see a need for improved delivery. Find out where they see their weaknesses - resource assignment, quality, schedules, costs? Then focus on simple ways to solve those specific concerns..
Go in with an offer (ask) to help rather than create rules and procedures or dictate changes. Your job is to find ways to more effectively deliver their product, not to impose change.
...
1 reply by Christina Heath
Nov 19, 2020 8:17 PM
Christina Heath
...
I truly enjoyed your insight here. Investigate the why and offer incremental change solutions. Love this advice.
Saving Changes...
Alex KuczeraProject Manager| Stormtec FiltrationCanmore, Alberta, Canada
Nov 18, 2020 4:36 PM
Replying to Kiron Bondale
...
Alex -
Sure - the ones we offer :-)
Seriously though, take a look at our offerings but also those from other long-standing training organizations. You want a course that will provide a pragmatic approach to project management incorporating lessons around tailoring and built around a single business case to make it useful.
Kiron
I'll definitely take a look! Saving Changes...
Alex KuczeraProject Manager| Stormtec FiltrationCanmore, Alberta, Canada
Nov 18, 2020 12:00 PM
Replying to Rachel M
...
Bonus question - Salary Related:
I am entry-level and have a lot to learn, however it seems like a big challenge without much internal support/mentorship. When they ask what I want for salary what would you say is fair?
Do your research on what local salaries are offered. As well check the PMI salary survey data online at pmi.org.
From your other comments it sounds like you have the job already, I'd personally take advantage of this and ask for what you want salary wise! You're already at an advantage :)
...
1 reply by Peter Rapin
Nov 18, 2020 5:11 PM
Peter Rapin
...
The more you ask - the more will be expected of you. Find a reasonable reference to support your ask.
Saving Changes...
Peter RapinSubject Matter Expect; Project Delivery| Independent ConsultantOntario, Canada
Nov 18, 2020 5:05 PM
Replying to Alex Kuczera
...
Do your research on what local salaries are offered. As well check the PMI salary survey data online at pmi.org.
From your other comments it sounds like you have the job already, I'd personally take advantage of this and ask for what you want salary wise! You're already at an advantage :)
The more you ask - the more will be expected of you. Find a reasonable reference to support your ask.
...
1 reply by Alex Kuczera
Nov 18, 2020 11:14 PM
Alex Kuczera
...
I don't think this is necessarily true. How much you earn is not always a reflection of your responsibilities. There are too many factors that play into salary. I wouldn't let the thought of more salary = more expectations scare me into potentially asking for "less".
Saving Changes...
Alex KuczeraProject Manager| Stormtec FiltrationCanmore, Alberta, Canada
Nov 18, 2020 5:11 PM
Replying to Peter Rapin
...
The more you ask - the more will be expected of you. Find a reasonable reference to support your ask.
I don't think this is necessarily true. How much you earn is not always a reflection of your responsibilities. There are too many factors that play into salary. I wouldn't let the thought of more salary = more expectations scare me into potentially asking for "less".
...
1 reply by Rachel M
Nov 19, 2020 6:41 AM
Rachel M
...
I agree I will be wearing many hats anyway and I work my best in all situations. I was asked for a number yesterday and I want to send this email. What do you think?
Thanks for taking the time to speak with me yesterday, XXXXX! I have spent some time considering the position and the situation. You have several barriers to organizational success on which I can help you.
This includes: • creating a custom management strategy that works for the team • assessing the current situation and observing the team’s natural response to tasks • building remote comradery and communication • nurturing projects and clients for success • defining projects, budgets, risks, and quality • monitoring and controlling the progress of projects, teammates, and management style • creating documents and reports for each task and a lessons learned file • maximizing all resources for future growth
I have looked over several data resources, and I have found that the market for this position can reach $103,000 a year based on my skillset and the data below.
Here are my sources: Glassdoor = $85,232 Richmond, VA (75% percentile) Indeed = $85,762 National Average PayScale = $80,560 Richmond, VA (75% percentile) PMI Annual National Salary Survey - See Attachment Page 302: Annualized Salary by Years Worked in Project Management US = $103,000
However, I am very eager to work with you guys, and I am willing to offer my service for: 35.82 per hour or 74,499 salaried
I also include healthcare costs because it won't be provided and a quick start date of November 24th. I also want to clarify that I am willing to negotiate as I understand each company has its budget. I am open to negotiating pay for expanded PTO, flexible hours, education in the field, or other ideas you might have, even if specified for the future. However, if this number is good with you, I’m on board!
I should mention I am currently speaking with two other companies interested in hiring me, but you’re my top pick, so let me know. I am looking forward to your reply and again, thank you so much for the opportunity!
Saving Changes...
Rachel MProject Manager| NoneRichmond, Va, United States
Nov 18, 2020 11:14 PM
Replying to Alex Kuczera
...
I don't think this is necessarily true. How much you earn is not always a reflection of your responsibilities. There are too many factors that play into salary. I wouldn't let the thought of more salary = more expectations scare me into potentially asking for "less".
I agree I will be wearing many hats anyway and I work my best in all situations. I was asked for a number yesterday and I want to send this email. What do you think?
Thanks for taking the time to speak with me yesterday, XXXXX! I have spent some time considering the position and the situation. You have several barriers to organizational success on which I can help you.
This includes: • creating a custom management strategy that works for the team • assessing the current situation and observing the team’s natural response to tasks • building remote comradery and communication • nurturing projects and clients for success • defining projects, budgets, risks, and quality • monitoring and controlling the progress of projects, teammates, and management style • creating documents and reports for each task and a lessons learned file • maximizing all resources for future growth
I have looked over several data resources, and I have found that the market for this position can reach $103,000 a year based on my skillset and the data below.
Here are my sources: Glassdoor = $85,232 Richmond, VA (75% percentile) Indeed = $85,762 National Average PayScale = $80,560 Richmond, VA (75% percentile) PMI Annual National Salary Survey - See Attachment Page 302: Annualized Salary by Years Worked in Project Management US = $103,000
However, I am very eager to work with you guys, and I am willing to offer my service for: 35.82 per hour or 74,499 salaried
I also include healthcare costs because it won't be provided and a quick start date of November 24th. I also want to clarify that I am willing to negotiate as I understand each company has its budget. I am open to negotiating pay for expanded PTO, flexible hours, education in the field, or other ideas you might have, even if specified for the future. However, if this number is good with you, I’m on board!
I should mention I am currently speaking with two other companies interested in hiring me, but you’re my top pick, so let me know. I am looking forward to your reply and again, thank you so much for the opportunity!
...
1 reply by Alex Kuczera
Nov 19, 2020 6:28 PM
Alex Kuczera
...
I'm no hiring manager, but I am personally very impressed! Looks great to me. Good luck! Let us know how it turned out.
Saving Changes...
Alex KuczeraProject Manager| Stormtec FiltrationCanmore, Alberta, Canada
Nov 19, 2020 6:41 AM
Replying to Rachel M
...
I agree I will be wearing many hats anyway and I work my best in all situations. I was asked for a number yesterday and I want to send this email. What do you think?
Thanks for taking the time to speak with me yesterday, XXXXX! I have spent some time considering the position and the situation. You have several barriers to organizational success on which I can help you.
This includes: • creating a custom management strategy that works for the team • assessing the current situation and observing the team’s natural response to tasks • building remote comradery and communication • nurturing projects and clients for success • defining projects, budgets, risks, and quality • monitoring and controlling the progress of projects, teammates, and management style • creating documents and reports for each task and a lessons learned file • maximizing all resources for future growth
I have looked over several data resources, and I have found that the market for this position can reach $103,000 a year based on my skillset and the data below.
Here are my sources: Glassdoor = $85,232 Richmond, VA (75% percentile) Indeed = $85,762 National Average PayScale = $80,560 Richmond, VA (75% percentile) PMI Annual National Salary Survey - See Attachment Page 302: Annualized Salary by Years Worked in Project Management US = $103,000
However, I am very eager to work with you guys, and I am willing to offer my service for: 35.82 per hour or 74,499 salaried
I also include healthcare costs because it won't be provided and a quick start date of November 24th. I also want to clarify that I am willing to negotiate as I understand each company has its budget. I am open to negotiating pay for expanded PTO, flexible hours, education in the field, or other ideas you might have, even if specified for the future. However, if this number is good with you, I’m on board!
I should mention I am currently speaking with two other companies interested in hiring me, but you’re my top pick, so let me know. I am looking forward to your reply and again, thank you so much for the opportunity!
I'm no hiring manager, but I am personally very impressed! Looks great to me. Good luck! Let us know how it turned out.
...
1 reply by Rachel M
Nov 19, 2020 6:57 PM
Rachel M
...
Thanks, I will. I sent it off this morning and now we wait!
Saving Changes...
Rachel MProject Manager| NoneRichmond, Va, United States
Nov 19, 2020 6:28 PM
Replying to Alex Kuczera
...
I'm no hiring manager, but I am personally very impressed! Looks great to me. Good luck! Let us know how it turned out.
Thanks, I will. I sent it off this morning and now we wait! Saving Changes...
I'll respond much the same as my response to another query relating to implementing project management in a small company:
The first question is WHY. Why does the company want to implement project management? What is the problem they are looking for a solution to? Once you know the why it becomes easier to lay out a path the get there.
They obviously are doing some things right in order to stay in business but they see a need for improved delivery. Find out where they see their weaknesses - resource assignment, quality, schedules, costs? Then focus on simple ways to solve those specific concerns..
Go in with an offer (ask) to help rather than create rules and procedures or dictate changes. Your job is to find ways to more effectively deliver their product, not to impose change.
I truly enjoyed your insight here. Investigate the why and offer incremental change solutions. Love this advice. Saving Changes...
Peter RapinSubject Matter Expect; Project Delivery| Independent ConsultantOntario, Canada
Once you're in the chair the third thing to do is a Strength, Weakness, Opportunity, Threat (SWOT) analysis. Right after finding the washroom and a good local coffee shop (hiding and networking). Saving Changes...
