I've worked with project managers and currently, I'm a project leader that manage projects but not as detailed as a project manager would do (not as authorized either). I'm keen to switch my career to become a project manager. How can I convince the hiring manager that I am capable as one? I have shared project related experiences. Any other points that I should highlight? What kind of volunteering work can I be involved with? Should I start with Project Assistant role? Thank you. Saving Changes...
Senior Projects Manager | Field & Marten AssociatesNew Westminster, British Columbia, Canada
Siaw, transitioning from a project leader to a project manager is a natural progression, and you're in a great position to make the switch, especially with your experience in managing projects. In order to position yourself for this move, I suggest you:
1) Highlight transferrable skills and expertise especially those related to soft skills as the PM works is highly dependent on their soft skills.
2) Expand your knowledge by doing some professional development. Consider the PMP for example.
3) Engage in volunteering opportunities. A good place to start would be your PMI local chapter.
Hope this helps!
...
1 reply by Siaw Wei Cheong
Nov 12, 2024 8:38 PM
Siaw Wei Cheong
...
Thanks for the tips, Rami! Tip 1 is definitely spot on.
Yes I have completed the PMP course - studying to take the exam soon.
Adding to Rami's input, highlight your accomplishments, not just your prior duties, titles, and skills. Project management is a means to an end so what benefits have you realized through your skills such as saving the company money, reducing time to market, or other ways your experience demonstrates a track record of delivering value?
...
1 reply by Siaw Wei Cheong
Nov 12, 2024 8:43 PM
Siaw Wei Cheong
...
Thanks Keith.
I like how you mentioned about highlighting my experience that demonstrates a track record of delivering value. I did nail the deliverables even though I was not the project manager. Perhaps share how I was the 2nd go-to-person in a project when the Project Manager was not around? I would also always be the one discussing about scope/timeline with the Project Manager.
Siaw, transitioning from a project leader to a project manager is a natural progression, and you're in a great position to make the switch, especially with your experience in managing projects. In order to position yourself for this move, I suggest you:
1) Highlight transferrable skills and expertise especially those related to soft skills as the PM works is highly dependent on their soft skills.
2) Expand your knowledge by doing some professional development. Consider the PMP for example.
3) Engage in volunteering opportunities. A good place to start would be your PMI local chapter.
Hope this helps!
Thanks for the tips, Rami! Tip 1 is definitely spot on.
Yes I have completed the PMP course - studying to take the exam soon.
Adding to Rami's input, highlight your accomplishments, not just your prior duties, titles, and skills. Project management is a means to an end so what benefits have you realized through your skills such as saving the company money, reducing time to market, or other ways your experience demonstrates a track record of delivering value?
Thanks Keith.
I like how you mentioned about highlighting my experience that demonstrates a track record of delivering value. I did nail the deliverables even though I was not the project manager. Perhaps share how I was the 2nd go-to-person in a project when the Project Manager was not around? I would also always be the one discussing about scope/timeline with the Project Manager. Saving Changes...
Financial Management Specialist | US Peace CorpsYaounde, Centre, Cameroon
That PMP Certification will be a game changer for you! I wish you all the best as you prepare for your exams Saving Changes...
Sergio Luis ConteHelping to create solutions for everyone| Worldwide based OrganizationsBuenos Aires, Argentina
It is not about to share project related experiences. It is about to share goals you have achieved or have contribute to achieve as project manager or project leader. For example, as project manager in X project I contribute to enhance NPS from 10% to 5% delivering Y value to clients. Then, when you get the interview it is time to explain how. Saving Changes...
Community Champion
