My goal for this year is to get a Project Management job. I've got my CAPM as well as a certificate from Google. However, there are a few problems:
1. As mentioned before, I don't have direct PM experience. Most of my background is in admin and I've been working on tailoring my resume to highlight my transferable skills.
2. There's a lack of suitable jobs. Most "entry-level" PM jobs require many years of experience or a Master's degree.
How have others been able to transfer into PM? Any advice is appreciated.
Thank you and have a great weekend! Saving Changes...
Senior Projects Manager | Field & Marten AssociatesNew Westminster, British Columbia, Canada
Patrick
I understand how tough it might be these days to find an entry level job with no experience but I am confident you eventually will. Shifting into the project management field is very possible but it might take a bit more time than you have anticipated.
Getting your CAPM was a wise move and will certainly be an asset.
Try looking for Project Coordinator roles and also I highly recommend you get in touch with your local PMI Chapter and see what volunteer opportunities they have as it might open others doors for you in the future.
I'd echo Rami's suggestion about looking for Project Coordinator/Analyst/Control Officer type roles as those usually have more modest experience requirements.
I'd also suggest reviewing team lead-type job descriptions for roles within the industry or domain where you have "hands on" experience as they sometimes involve a fair bit of project management.
Kiron Saving Changes...
Thomas WalentaGlobal Project Economy ExpertHackenheim, Germany
Good luck Patrick, nothing of value to add. Saving Changes...
If you have no experience in anything, you are unlikely to find a leadership position. You may gain significant PM experience without a PM title however, in a job role where you can demonstrate what experience you do have.
I am currently not a PM, but rather a technical team leader. In that role, I frequently create projects based on my evaluation of the gap between current state and current/future needs.
As part of my job managing whatever technical assignment, I evaluate what works well and what needs improvement. When I make a compelling case to the stakeholders who own the budgets that improvements are needed, I become responsible for making those improvements. Those efforts become projects, and I become the de facto PM or assign it to another PM under my RAA.
By demonstrating my ability to size up the problems, develop a plan, execute the plan, and deliver results, I gain the credibility to take on larger responsibilities.
In the last 25 years, I have taken on many jobs as some kind of technical specialist. In almost all cases, I have moved into the lead position within 1 year, not by making the position my goal, but rather by demonstrating my insight and leadership. Saving Changes...
Jon StreinSenior Food Chemistry Scientist, Quality Systems Project Manager| Mizkan AmericaChicago, Il, United States
Clearly communicate your goals with your boss, and work on personal and team projects. Use your CAPM knowledge; take ownership and leadership. Consistently deliver over time, and keep track of your experience. It takes time, focus on consistent progress and you will achieve. Saving Changes...
Head of Cloud Software & Services| Ericsson EMEAVictoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria
Patrick,
CAPM is a good starting point and try to secure Project coordinator role and i am optimistic that it will make your transition to PM easy. All the best Saving Changes...
CAPM provides you the knowledge to perform successfully as part of a project team, or for a project coordinator/ project analyst role. Applying for these positions you can get valuable Project Management experience. Saving Changes...
Jeffrey Bauman PMPProject Manager| ConsultingManahawkin, Nj, United States
They have already said it best Saving Changes...
Jorge MéndezIndependentSanta Cruz De La Sierra, S, Bolivia (Plurinational State of)
Excelente consejo, gracias Saving Changes...
Stéphane ParentSelf Employed / Semi-retired| Leader MakerPrince Edward Island, Canada
Have you considered volunteering for charitable organizations? They have events that need to be managed. That would be one way to build project management experience on your résumé. Saving Changes...
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