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How do I go about being a project manager?
I am currently a project coordinator with a bachelor's in IT and in the process of getting an MBA. Do I still nee to take the PMP? What else should I be doing?
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12 answers
Updated
Denise’s Answer
Hi Mia,
I've been in digital project management for a good part of my career, so happy to help here. I didn't start out as a project manager, but evolved into it.
Becoming a project manager typically involves a combination of education, experience, and sometimes certification. Here’s a general pathway to becoming a project manager:
1. Educational Background: While not always mandatory, having a relevant educational background can be beneficial. Degrees in business, management, engineering, or related fields can provide foundational knowledge useful in project management.
2. Gain Experience: Start by gaining experience in roles that involve project coordination or management tasks. This can be through roles like project coordinator, team lead, or any position where you handle projects or parts of projects. Such experience helps develop important skills like communication, organization, and leadership.
3. Develop Key Skills: Project managers need strong skills in areas such as communication, time management, problem-solving, leadership, and negotiation. These can be developed through on-the-job experience, workshops, or online courses.
4. Learn Project Management Methodologies: Familiarize yourself with various project management methodologies such as Agile, Scrum, Waterfall, and Lean. Understanding these approaches can be critical depending on the industry or company you work for.
5. Pursue Certification (Optional): While not always required, certifications can enhance your credentials and demonstrate your expertise. The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is one of the most recognized certifications in the field. However, there are others like Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP), or certifications specific to certain methodologies like ScrumMaster (CSM).
- PMP Certification: To sit for the PMP exam, you typically need a combination of professional project management experience and education. For example, you might need 3-5 years of experience leading projects and 35 hours of project management education/training or a CAPM certification. The PMP is particularly valuable in industries where formal project management processes are emphasized. Note: I was working as a project manager for over 10 years before I decided to sit for this certification.
6. Network and Continue Learning: Join professional organizations such as the Project Management Institute (PMI) to network with other professionals, attend conferences, and stay updated on industry trends. Continuous learning and development are crucial in a field that evolves with new technologies and methodologies.
7. Seek Opportunities for Advancement: As you gain experience, look for opportunities to take on larger projects or more responsibility. Building a track record of successful project delivery can help you advance to higher-level project management roles.
Whether or not you pursue a PMP certification depends on your career goals, the industry you’re in, and employer requirements. In some industries, especially in IT or construction, a PMP is highly valued and sometimes required. In others, practical experience and skills may weigh more heavily. Assess your specific situation and career goals to decide if pursuing certification aligns with your professional objectives.
Best of luck to you in your education and future career!
I've been in digital project management for a good part of my career, so happy to help here. I didn't start out as a project manager, but evolved into it.
Becoming a project manager typically involves a combination of education, experience, and sometimes certification. Here’s a general pathway to becoming a project manager:
1. Educational Background: While not always mandatory, having a relevant educational background can be beneficial. Degrees in business, management, engineering, or related fields can provide foundational knowledge useful in project management.
2. Gain Experience: Start by gaining experience in roles that involve project coordination or management tasks. This can be through roles like project coordinator, team lead, or any position where you handle projects or parts of projects. Such experience helps develop important skills like communication, organization, and leadership.
3. Develop Key Skills: Project managers need strong skills in areas such as communication, time management, problem-solving, leadership, and negotiation. These can be developed through on-the-job experience, workshops, or online courses.
4. Learn Project Management Methodologies: Familiarize yourself with various project management methodologies such as Agile, Scrum, Waterfall, and Lean. Understanding these approaches can be critical depending on the industry or company you work for.
5. Pursue Certification (Optional): While not always required, certifications can enhance your credentials and demonstrate your expertise. The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is one of the most recognized certifications in the field. However, there are others like Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP), or certifications specific to certain methodologies like ScrumMaster (CSM).
- PMP Certification: To sit for the PMP exam, you typically need a combination of professional project management experience and education. For example, you might need 3-5 years of experience leading projects and 35 hours of project management education/training or a CAPM certification. The PMP is particularly valuable in industries where formal project management processes are emphasized. Note: I was working as a project manager for over 10 years before I decided to sit for this certification.
6. Network and Continue Learning: Join professional organizations such as the Project Management Institute (PMI) to network with other professionals, attend conferences, and stay updated on industry trends. Continuous learning and development are crucial in a field that evolves with new technologies and methodologies.
7. Seek Opportunities for Advancement: As you gain experience, look for opportunities to take on larger projects or more responsibility. Building a track record of successful project delivery can help you advance to higher-level project management roles.
Whether or not you pursue a PMP certification depends on your career goals, the industry you’re in, and employer requirements. In some industries, especially in IT or construction, a PMP is highly valued and sometimes required. In others, practical experience and skills may weigh more heavily. Assess your specific situation and career goals to decide if pursuing certification aligns with your professional objectives.
Best of luck to you in your education and future career!
Thanks for the help.
Mia
Updated
Anita’s Answer
In my opinion, certification is not very important if you are already coordinating projects. While PMP and PRINCE2 certifications can be beneficial for learning, if you have real-time project coordination experience, it's better to focus on seeking promotions internally to a project manager role. Many companies prefer hands-on experience gained from daily job tasks over formal certification.
You can use your background in your network and seek opportunities.
You can use your background in your network and seek opportunities.
This was super helpful, thank you!
Mia
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
I would say that PMP is a great "adder" but definitely not something required for success in the field. I think it boils down to the industry in which you concentrate your efforts. I would "second" Biplab's comment regarding "boots-on-the-ground experience DOING project management". The key to being a successful PM is expertise in the minutia of the field in which your managing- across the scrope of the involved teams.
Thanks for the advice.
Mia
Updated
Irma’s Answer
In addition to the answers provided, I'll confirm that being PMP certified will be good to have; it is a well-known certification that employers look for so, it is worth the effort and investment to get it. Prepare for it, study, do exam rehearsals (there are tools that can simulate the exams for practice) and when you feel ready, go for it. Good luck and enjoy the ride.
Irma, thank you!
Mia
Updated
Kori’s Answer
Securing a PMP certification and participating in as many training sessions as you can around various project management styles is highly recommended. Each company tends to employ diverse project management techniques, often integrating their unique "style" that borrows elements from recognized methods. The more you comprehend these varying project management styles, the more versatile you become. This versatility not only enhances your adaptability but also boosts your appeal to a wide range of companies and industries. Once you've mastered project management, you'll be equipped to manage projects in any industry.
Moreover, it's beneficial to gain as much experience as possible in managing projects, even the smaller ones. Acquiring skills to deal with various types of people, personalities, and styles is crucial for leading a successful project.
Moreover, it's beneficial to gain as much experience as possible in managing projects, even the smaller ones. Acquiring skills to deal with various types of people, personalities, and styles is crucial for leading a successful project.
I appreciate your support, Kori
Mia
Updated
Irem’s Answer
Hi Mia,
I think your bachelor's in IT, MBA and current role in project coordination are already setting you up on a great path. So for now, I would not look into certifications if I were you.
These qualifications also require some years of experience, and there are many project management roles which do not require certifications.
As you gain more experience, your projects will get larger, and you will be able to manage more. So for now:
1. Focus on your MBA
2. Gain experience: you can also look at volunteering and remote jobs if you have time or are able to, which will expose you to different projects.
3. Develop your soft skills: Such as communication, time management, problem-solving.
4. Stay up to date with different Project Managements methods such as Agile, Scrum, Waterfall etc and learn about which industries use which method and why. You can also explore the short-comings, and where people have challenges to get a deeper understanding of the industry.
Remember - if a company requires a certification, they may also be able to pay for it for you.
Hope this helps!
I think your bachelor's in IT, MBA and current role in project coordination are already setting you up on a great path. So for now, I would not look into certifications if I were you.
These qualifications also require some years of experience, and there are many project management roles which do not require certifications.
As you gain more experience, your projects will get larger, and you will be able to manage more. So for now:
1. Focus on your MBA
2. Gain experience: you can also look at volunteering and remote jobs if you have time or are able to, which will expose you to different projects.
3. Develop your soft skills: Such as communication, time management, problem-solving.
4. Stay up to date with different Project Managements methods such as Agile, Scrum, Waterfall etc and learn about which industries use which method and why. You can also explore the short-comings, and where people have challenges to get a deeper understanding of the industry.
Remember - if a company requires a certification, they may also be able to pay for it for you.
Hope this helps!
Your advice was so helpful!
Mia
Updated
Nauman Tahir’s Answer
Hello Mia,
Denise and Biplab have provided comprehensive responses to your question. To build on their insights, remember that becoming a project manager and securing a job as one don't always coincide. You might be well-versed in project management methodologies, but recruiters often look for specific keywords in your resume. As you pursue your MBA and work towards your PMP, take the time to familiarize yourself with the prerequisites of a project manager in your industry. If you're targeting the IT sector, mastering tools like Jira and Asana is essential, among others. You might be proficient in all the necessary tools and tactics, but without tangible proof such as certifications or proven experience, you may face hurdles reaching the interview phase. Given your current role as a project coordinator, your journey might differ slightly. Still, I recommend you continually seek opportunities to enhance your skillset and enrich your resume whenever possible.
Wishing you the very best on your journey!
Denise and Biplab have provided comprehensive responses to your question. To build on their insights, remember that becoming a project manager and securing a job as one don't always coincide. You might be well-versed in project management methodologies, but recruiters often look for specific keywords in your resume. As you pursue your MBA and work towards your PMP, take the time to familiarize yourself with the prerequisites of a project manager in your industry. If you're targeting the IT sector, mastering tools like Jira and Asana is essential, among others. You might be proficient in all the necessary tools and tactics, but without tangible proof such as certifications or proven experience, you may face hurdles reaching the interview phase. Given your current role as a project coordinator, your journey might differ slightly. Still, I recommend you continually seek opportunities to enhance your skillset and enrich your resume whenever possible.
Wishing you the very best on your journey!
Thank you so much, Nauman Tahir!
Mia
Updated
Biplab’s Answer
Hi Mia!
Denise already added a lot of great advice, so I'll keep my additions brief:
* PMP is not necessary, but extremely helpful - I'd get at least a few years of project management experience on the ground as it will make it more likely that you will be able to pass the exam.
* The most important advice I can give is to get boots-on-the-ground experience DOING project management and learn the aspects of managing a team: setting expectations, scope control, budget control, timeline management, executive level communication, and may other skills.
Good luck!
Denise already added a lot of great advice, so I'll keep my additions brief:
* PMP is not necessary, but extremely helpful - I'd get at least a few years of project management experience on the ground as it will make it more likely that you will be able to pass the exam.
* The most important advice I can give is to get boots-on-the-ground experience DOING project management and learn the aspects of managing a team: setting expectations, scope control, budget control, timeline management, executive level communication, and may other skills.
Good luck!
Thank you for the advice.
Mia
Updated
Juliana’s Answer
You're on the right track! As a project coordinator with IT experience and pursuing an MBA, you're well-prepared to become a project manager.
Here are some steps to help you transition:
1. Use Your Current Role
Take on more PM tasks like managing timelines, leading meetings, and communicating with stakeholders. Inform your manager about your goals to gain their support and possibly lead small projects.
2. Build Your Project Portfolio
Keep a record of your projects, your role, the challenges faced, and the results. This will be useful for job interviews or promotions.
3. Consider Certifications
PMP is well-respected but not essential unless you have 3 years of experience. If not, consider:
- CAPM: A good starter certification.
- ScrumMaster: Useful for tech or agile settings.
- Google Project Management Certificate: Affordable and practical.
4. Network and Learn
Join project management groups and seek mentorship from current PMs who can offer guidance.
5. Use Your MBA Effectively
Choose electives or projects in leadership, operations, or strategic management, as they relate to PM roles.
You're close to making the leap, and with your background, it's just a matter of time and taking the right steps. Let me know if you need help with certifications or planning your path!
Here are some steps to help you transition:
1. Use Your Current Role
Take on more PM tasks like managing timelines, leading meetings, and communicating with stakeholders. Inform your manager about your goals to gain their support and possibly lead small projects.
2. Build Your Project Portfolio
Keep a record of your projects, your role, the challenges faced, and the results. This will be useful for job interviews or promotions.
3. Consider Certifications
PMP is well-respected but not essential unless you have 3 years of experience. If not, consider:
- CAPM: A good starter certification.
- ScrumMaster: Useful for tech or agile settings.
- Google Project Management Certificate: Affordable and practical.
4. Network and Learn
Join project management groups and seek mentorship from current PMs who can offer guidance.
5. Use Your MBA Effectively
Choose electives or projects in leadership, operations, or strategic management, as they relate to PM roles.
You're close to making the leap, and with your background, it's just a matter of time and taking the right steps. Let me know if you need help with certifications or planning your path!
Updated
Mehwish’s Answer
First of all, congratulations on your progress! Being a project coordinator with a bachelor's in IT and pursuing an MBA already sets you on a strong path toward becoming a project manager. Let me break down your question and explore the best steps you can take to achieve your goal.
I'm gonna write it in a bit of detail to clarify what you need to do next, so bare with me, please.
While the PMP (Project Management Professional) certification is not mandatory to become a project manager, it is highly valued in the industry and can significantly boost your career prospects. Here's why:
Credibility
Competitive Advantage
Global Recognition
However, the PMP requires project management experience (typically 36 months for candidates with a bachelor's degree). If you already meet the experience criteria, pursuing the PMP is a great next step.
Steps to Becoming a Project Manager
Here are additional steps to help you transition into a project management role:
1. Gain Practical Experience
While certifications and education are valuable, hands-on experience is just as important. As a project coordinator, you’re already gaining exposure to:
Scheduling and task management.
Resource allocation.
Communicating with stakeholders.
To prepare for a project manager role, look for opportunities to take on additional responsibilities, such as managing small projects or leading specific aspects of a project. This will help build your confidence and skills.
2. Strengthen Your Skills
Effective project managers have a mix of technical and soft skills. Some key areas to focus on include:
Leadership and Communication: Managing teams and stakeholders effectively.
Risk Management: Identifying and mitigating potential project risks.
Budgeting and Scheduling: Using tools like MS Project, Primavera, or Jira to plan and execute projects.
Agile and Scrum Methodologies: Understanding frameworks like Agile and Scrum, which are increasingly popular in project management. You might consider earning a Scrum Master Certification (CSM) as an additional credential.
3. Leverage Your IT Background
Your IT background is a significant advantage, as many project management roles are in tech-related industries. Use your technical expertise to stand out when applying for project management positions, particularly in fields like software development, IT infrastructure, or digital transformation projects.
4. Continue Networking and Learning
Networking can open doors to opportunities and mentorship. Consider:
Joining professional organizations like Project Management Institute (PMI).
Attending local or virtual events related to project management.
Connecting with project managers on platforms like LinkedIn to learn from their experiences.
Additionally, stay up-to-date with trends and best practices by reading blogs, and listening to podcasts.
I'm gonna write it in a bit of detail to clarify what you need to do next, so bare with me, please.
While the PMP (Project Management Professional) certification is not mandatory to become a project manager, it is highly valued in the industry and can significantly boost your career prospects. Here's why:
Credibility
Competitive Advantage
Global Recognition
However, the PMP requires project management experience (typically 36 months for candidates with a bachelor's degree). If you already meet the experience criteria, pursuing the PMP is a great next step.
Steps to Becoming a Project Manager
Here are additional steps to help you transition into a project management role:
1. Gain Practical Experience
While certifications and education are valuable, hands-on experience is just as important. As a project coordinator, you’re already gaining exposure to:
Scheduling and task management.
Resource allocation.
Communicating with stakeholders.
To prepare for a project manager role, look for opportunities to take on additional responsibilities, such as managing small projects or leading specific aspects of a project. This will help build your confidence and skills.
2. Strengthen Your Skills
Effective project managers have a mix of technical and soft skills. Some key areas to focus on include:
Leadership and Communication: Managing teams and stakeholders effectively.
Risk Management: Identifying and mitigating potential project risks.
Budgeting and Scheduling: Using tools like MS Project, Primavera, or Jira to plan and execute projects.
Agile and Scrum Methodologies: Understanding frameworks like Agile and Scrum, which are increasingly popular in project management. You might consider earning a Scrum Master Certification (CSM) as an additional credential.
3. Leverage Your IT Background
Your IT background is a significant advantage, as many project management roles are in tech-related industries. Use your technical expertise to stand out when applying for project management positions, particularly in fields like software development, IT infrastructure, or digital transformation projects.
4. Continue Networking and Learning
Networking can open doors to opportunities and mentorship. Consider:
Joining professional organizations like Project Management Institute (PMI).
Attending local or virtual events related to project management.
Connecting with project managers on platforms like LinkedIn to learn from their experiences.
Additionally, stay up-to-date with trends and best practices by reading blogs, and listening to podcasts.
You rock! This advice is very helpful.
Mia
Updated
Keirsten’s Answer
Hi Mia-
So great to see your interest in Project Management. I believe everyone has the ability to go into project management as we all plan things in our day to day and execute those plans. I would advise identifying your transferable skills related to project management. You are already ahead with gaining experience and knowledge as a project coordinator. The soft skills of stakeholder management, time management, and interpersonal connections are built during this phase of your career. As next steps, I'd recommend partnering with a colleague who is in the next role you are seeking. Understand your gaps and begin to look for stretch opportunities to sharpen the skills in those gaps. After that, I would recommend exploring obtaining your PMP certification as this will provide the framework and base knowledge to be an effective project manager. Wish you well as your explore the next phase of your career.
So great to see your interest in Project Management. I believe everyone has the ability to go into project management as we all plan things in our day to day and execute those plans. I would advise identifying your transferable skills related to project management. You are already ahead with gaining experience and knowledge as a project coordinator. The soft skills of stakeholder management, time management, and interpersonal connections are built during this phase of your career. As next steps, I'd recommend partnering with a colleague who is in the next role you are seeking. Understand your gaps and begin to look for stretch opportunities to sharpen the skills in those gaps. After that, I would recommend exploring obtaining your PMP certification as this will provide the framework and base knowledge to be an effective project manager. Wish you well as your explore the next phase of your career.
Ankita Pimple
Currently Student pursuing MS in Management Information System
27
Answers
Updated
Ankita’s Answer
You're already on a solid path! As a Project Coordinator with a bachelor’s in IT and working toward your MBA, you’re gaining the right mix of technical knowledge and business skills. Here's what you can do next:
✅ Build Experience: Take initiative in your current role—lead small projects, own timelines, communicate with stakeholders, and document your wins.
✅ Certifications (Optional, but Helpful): PMP is valuable but not required immediately. Since you’re still early in your PM journey, consider starting with CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management). It requires less experience and shows commitment to the field.
✅ Develop Soft Skills: Strengthen communication, leadership, and stakeholder management—these often matter more than tools.
✅ Learn PM Tools: Get hands-on with tools like Jira, MS Project, Asana, or Trello. It’s a plus if you can show tool experience on your resume.
✅ Network: Join PM groups on LinkedIn, attend local PMI chapter events, or participate in online forums to find mentors and job leads.
✅ Document Everything: Keep a portfolio of your contributions to projects—it’ll help when applying for full PM roles later.
You’re definitely on track—just keep building experience, growing your network, and learning as you go. PMP can come later once you hit the experience requirement!
✅ Build Experience: Take initiative in your current role—lead small projects, own timelines, communicate with stakeholders, and document your wins.
✅ Certifications (Optional, but Helpful): PMP is valuable but not required immediately. Since you’re still early in your PM journey, consider starting with CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management). It requires less experience and shows commitment to the field.
✅ Develop Soft Skills: Strengthen communication, leadership, and stakeholder management—these often matter more than tools.
✅ Learn PM Tools: Get hands-on with tools like Jira, MS Project, Asana, or Trello. It’s a plus if you can show tool experience on your resume.
✅ Network: Join PM groups on LinkedIn, attend local PMI chapter events, or participate in online forums to find mentors and job leads.
✅ Document Everything: Keep a portfolio of your contributions to projects—it’ll help when applying for full PM roles later.
You’re definitely on track—just keep building experience, growing your network, and learning as you go. PMP can come later once you hit the experience requirement!