During the next following days, I'll be starting the process of working towards obtaining my first PM certification (CAPM). But, based on the advice of many, I’ve been told that I should focus on obtaining job experience within the field in the meantime.
Nevertheless, by not having the formal certification just yet and not having the full hands-on experience in business, I would think that an entry level role (project coordinator, project analyst, junior PM, etc.) is my best bet.
Therefore, I would like to know if its viable and possible for me to obtain one of these entry level positions without being certified (in the mean time), with my bachelor's degree (that has nothing to do in business or in STEM) and the 8 months of experience in working with a university.
And if you have any additional advice, then feel free to tell me anything. Thank you in advance. Saving Changes...
Senior Projects Manager | Field & Marten AssociatesNew Westminster, British Columbia, Canada
A certification, regardless of which one, will never be the only motive for am employer to hire you. For a new graduate, employers look at different angles (soft skills, personality, ambitions and so on).
The CAPM is a knowledge based credential and it is an entry level certificate which you will provide you general project management knowledge. I would recommend you get the credential while you are looking for a job because this will show the employers that you at least have the knowledge and commitment to the profession.
I might suggest that you start by being a contributor/team member on one or a few projects in your first role to get a handle on the dynamics of project work. From there, stepping into a project analyst or coordinator role might be easier as you would be familiar with what those roles require of team members and the interaction model. You would also have developed domain knowledge in a specific type of project which will help when you make the jump into the project management job family.
I recommend Rita Mulcahy's CAPM certification prep, it's a good option to acquire PM Knowledge at your own pace, and is updated to the latest exam. Visit this link:
https://rmcls.com/capm-exam-prep/ Saving Changes...
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