I’m Sheeba, and I recently developed a strong interest in project management. I come from a software development background and had taken a career break, during which I completed the Google Project Management Certificate on Coursera. It really sparked my curiosity in this field, and now I’m looking to seriously pursue a career in project management.However, I’m a bit confused about the next steps.
Which PMI certification would be the most suitable for someone like me just starting out?
Should I aim for CAPM first, or is PMP a viable goal if I build more experience?
Also, could you recommend some good books or resources for exam prep and building foundational PM knowledge?
Any advice or insights from your own experiences would be greatly appreciated!
Are you currently working, or still on break?
Without project management experience, you are less likely to get hired as a project manager, even if you get a certification. The following steps are one approach you could take, as a starting point, recognizing that plans can change as you learn more.
- Research project management (project coordinator, associate project manager, etc.) job descriptions to better understand what is required regarding experience, education, and certification
- Create a plan to meet the requirements, over time
- If you're not working, get a job that you're qualified for at a company that also hires project managers
- Prove yourself, build trust, and work your plan
- Get involved with in-person project management communities, like a local PMI chapter
- After you've been working at the company for at least your probationary period, talk to your manager about doing more project-based work, cross-training with project managers if this is an available option, and maybe even mentoring (if your employer has a mentor program). Basically, express interest and see what options are available
- Build relationships with the project managers you work with. Let them know your interests and see if they have any advice.
- Keep working your plan.
It probably won't work out exactly like this, and that's okay. It can take time and your plan will change as you learn more. The point is that, without specific PM experience, you're more likely to transition into project management at a company where you are currently employed. There are outliers - some people have made the transition quickly, usually involving a strong network and pm-adjacent experience. But it usually involves a lot of frustration and rejection.
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1 reply by Sheeba Zaffer
May 29, 2025 10:17 AM
Sheeba Zaffer
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Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a detailed and thoughtful response. I really appreciate it.
To answer your question, I’m currently still on a break. I understand that breaking into project management without formal experience can be challenging, but your advice really helped clarify the steps I can start taking.
Since I have a background in software development, I’m considering roles like project coordinator or other entry-level PM positions where I can leverage my tech experience. I’m also planning to pursue the CAPM certification to build a solid foundation and show my commitment to this path. In the meantime, I’ll look into joining local PMI chapters or online communities to connect with others, learn, and explore any mentorship opportunities.
I also wanted to ask, is it completely impossible to transition into project management while still on a break, or just more difficult? I’m open to starting from the ground up and working my way into the role. If anyone has made a similar shift or knows of people who’ve done it while not currently employed, I’d love to hear their stories.
Thanks again, this discussion is really helping me shape my next steps!
Are you currently working, or still on break?
Without project management experience, you are less likely to get hired as a project manager, even if you get a certification. The following steps are one approach you could take, as a starting point, recognizing that plans can change as you learn more.
- Research project management (project coordinator, associate project manager, etc.) job descriptions to better understand what is required regarding experience, education, and certification
- Create a plan to meet the requirements, over time
- If you're not working, get a job that you're qualified for at a company that also hires project managers
- Prove yourself, build trust, and work your plan
- Get involved with in-person project management communities, like a local PMI chapter
- After you've been working at the company for at least your probationary period, talk to your manager about doing more project-based work, cross-training with project managers if this is an available option, and maybe even mentoring (if your employer has a mentor program). Basically, express interest and see what options are available
- Build relationships with the project managers you work with. Let them know your interests and see if they have any advice.
- Keep working your plan.
It probably won't work out exactly like this, and that's okay. It can take time and your plan will change as you learn more. The point is that, without specific PM experience, you're more likely to transition into project management at a company where you are currently employed. There are outliers - some people have made the transition quickly, usually involving a strong network and pm-adjacent experience. But it usually involves a lot of frustration and rejection.
Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a detailed and thoughtful response. I really appreciate it.
To answer your question, I’m currently still on a break. I understand that breaking into project management without formal experience can be challenging, but your advice really helped clarify the steps I can start taking.
Since I have a background in software development, I’m considering roles like project coordinator or other entry-level PM positions where I can leverage my tech experience. I’m also planning to pursue the CAPM certification to build a solid foundation and show my commitment to this path. In the meantime, I’ll look into joining local PMI chapters or online communities to connect with others, learn, and explore any mentorship opportunities.
I also wanted to ask, is it completely impossible to transition into project management while still on a break, or just more difficult? I’m open to starting from the ground up and working my way into the role. If anyone has made a similar shift or knows of people who’ve done it while not currently employed, I’d love to hear their stories.
Thanks again, this discussion is really helping me shape my next steps!
Focus on gaining foundational knowledge and experience first, then pick certifications which will complement those. For the former, while the Google courses might provide some grounding in the profession, a group-based course (in person or virtual) where you collaborate with others to take a fictitious project from cradle to grave is a better option.
Landing your first PM role might be challenging so be flexible - explore volunteer roles with not-for-profit organizations or PMI chapters, and be open to stepping stone roles such as project analysts or project coordinators.
Finally, find a mentor - they can help you avoid a lot of traps along your journey.
I completely agree that building a strong foundation is key, and I appreciate the emphasis on group-based or practical learning experiences. I’ll definitely look into options where I can work on simulated projects or volunteer in project-based roles.
I also found your suggestion about starting with stepping-stone roles like project analyst or coordinator really encouraging, it gives me a clearer path forward, especially as someone transitioning into this field after a career break.
I hadn’t seriously considered finding a mentor before, but now I see how valuable that can be to avoid common pitfalls and get real-world guidance. I’ll begin reaching out to my network and PMI chapters to explore this.
Thanks again for taking the time to share your advice. It’s really helped me feel more grounded and optimistic about the journey ahead.
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