5 answers
ALiyu
Student
Gombe, Nigeria
1
Question
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How can I effectively transition into a project management consulting role with skills in cloud computing,along with a Google Project Management Certificate" #Fall24?
I'm currently pursuing q Bachelor degree in Business Administration.
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5 answers
Josh Matthews
Sr. Human Resources Manager
7
Answers
New Cumberland, Pennsylvania
Updated
Josh’s Answer
Hello ALiyu,
I can honestly say that I do not know much about cloud computing. I have heard of the Google certificate, but there is a certification that holds a lot of weight called the “PMP” (Project Management Professional). I am sure you know that but I can say that does shine brightly on a resume.
Now to the part of your question of transitioning into a PM Consulting Role. My advice that has been formed through education and more importantly experience is that you can have the perfect project on paper (plan, timeline, deliverables, resources, etc.) but one factor that every project depends on is… People.
If you are doing project management, you need to manage the people doing the project and that isn’t always easy.
So, I would recommend you find classes, certifications, opportunities, etc. that can sharpen your skills of what it means to manage and lead people. These skills take time, but if a company wants to consult with you, they want to make sure you can connect with and motivate others.
I hope this helps!
I can honestly say that I do not know much about cloud computing. I have heard of the Google certificate, but there is a certification that holds a lot of weight called the “PMP” (Project Management Professional). I am sure you know that but I can say that does shine brightly on a resume.
Now to the part of your question of transitioning into a PM Consulting Role. My advice that has been formed through education and more importantly experience is that you can have the perfect project on paper (plan, timeline, deliverables, resources, etc.) but one factor that every project depends on is… People.
If you are doing project management, you need to manage the people doing the project and that isn’t always easy.
So, I would recommend you find classes, certifications, opportunities, etc. that can sharpen your skills of what it means to manage and lead people. These skills take time, but if a company wants to consult with you, they want to make sure you can connect with and motivate others.
I hope this helps!
Thank you for giving me advice.
ALiyu
Viktoryia Samsonava
I am an MBA student
1
Answer
Newcastle, WA
Updated
Viktoryia’s Answer
Hello Aliyu:
I’d recommend two things: updating your knowledge of PM tools and methods, and preparing relevant experience. Check if your BA program offers elective Project Management classes. Another option is an online PM course—Google’s PM course is a good start, and there are other options as well.
For experience, think about any instances where you've managed teams, led projects, or handled PM-related tasks. Highlight these on your resume. Look for Project Manager, Project Coordinator, Team Lead roles, or any position with project or program management responsibilities to build up experience for future opportunities and certifications.
Good luck.
Best,
Victoria
I’d recommend two things: updating your knowledge of PM tools and methods, and preparing relevant experience. Check if your BA program offers elective Project Management classes. Another option is an online PM course—Google’s PM course is a good start, and there are other options as well.
For experience, think about any instances where you've managed teams, led projects, or handled PM-related tasks. Highlight these on your resume. Look for Project Manager, Project Coordinator, Team Lead roles, or any position with project or program management responsibilities to build up experience for future opportunities and certifications.
Good luck.
Best,
Victoria
Nauman Tahir Farooqi
4
Answers
Updated
Nauman Tahir’s Answer
You can transition into Project Management at any stage of your career. However, the field of project management is more focused on the skills, practices, processes and skills related to project management than the product being worked on. Transitioning into project management consulting from a background in cloud computing and a Google Project Management Certificate is very achievable. Try and factor the following into your skill building target for the next few months.
Project management requires a strong grasp of key areas like scope, budget, resource, quality, and risk management. Deepen your knowledge in these areas by studying frameworks and tools used in project management, such as MS Project, JIRA, or Trello for Agile projects. Since you already have the Google Project Management Certificate, consider obtaining the PMP and Agile certifications. These are highly valued and will help you build credibility, especially if you aspire to work with clients on process improvement and efficiency.
Consulting requires specific skills like analytical thinking, client management, effective communication, and presentation abilities. These will help you analyze clients’ needs, offer solutions, and communicate results effectively. Practice building these skills through case studies, or consider taking short courses focused on consulting.
Apply your project management knowledge by taking on real projects, even if they’re part of volunteer work or internships. Experience managing teams, budgeting, risk assessment, and quality control will be invaluable. Look for projects where you can exercise end-to-end project management.
Join project management groups and professional organizations like PMI. Networking with experienced project managers and consultants can help you gain insights into consulting practices and offer opportunities to work on collaborative projects.
Project management requires a strong grasp of key areas like scope, budget, resource, quality, and risk management. Deepen your knowledge in these areas by studying frameworks and tools used in project management, such as MS Project, JIRA, or Trello for Agile projects. Since you already have the Google Project Management Certificate, consider obtaining the PMP and Agile certifications. These are highly valued and will help you build credibility, especially if you aspire to work with clients on process improvement and efficiency.
Consulting requires specific skills like analytical thinking, client management, effective communication, and presentation abilities. These will help you analyze clients’ needs, offer solutions, and communicate results effectively. Practice building these skills through case studies, or consider taking short courses focused on consulting.
Apply your project management knowledge by taking on real projects, even if they’re part of volunteer work or internships. Experience managing teams, budgeting, risk assessment, and quality control will be invaluable. Look for projects where you can exercise end-to-end project management.
Nauman Tahir recommends the following next steps:
Saba Shaw
1
Answer
Updated
Saba’s Answer
Hi Aliyu,
It’s great that you have cloud computing skills, as these can be leveraged in the specific field of project management (PM) consulting you’re interested in. To transition into PM consulting, you’ll need to develop a strong understanding of how things work as a project manager. Most importantly, focus on learning to manage teams and excel in leadership roles. While understanding project management methodologies is essential, your success will ultimately rely on your people skills, time management, risk management, and your ability to perform under pressure and solve problems.
You could aim to become a cloud computing project manager, which is a strong entry point. Since you haven’t mentioned any PM experience, I’d recommend starting with internships or junior roles to build foundational experience and transition from there.
Also, while the Google Project Management Certificate is a good start, it doesn’t add significant weight to a resume. I’d suggest pursuing certifications related to cloud computing and, for PM knowledge, start with learning Scrum and Agile methodologies. If your budget allows, consider the CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management) certification from PMI to gain a solid credential.
Best of luck!
It’s great that you have cloud computing skills, as these can be leveraged in the specific field of project management (PM) consulting you’re interested in. To transition into PM consulting, you’ll need to develop a strong understanding of how things work as a project manager. Most importantly, focus on learning to manage teams and excel in leadership roles. While understanding project management methodologies is essential, your success will ultimately rely on your people skills, time management, risk management, and your ability to perform under pressure and solve problems.
You could aim to become a cloud computing project manager, which is a strong entry point. Since you haven’t mentioned any PM experience, I’d recommend starting with internships or junior roles to build foundational experience and transition from there.
Also, while the Google Project Management Certificate is a good start, it doesn’t add significant weight to a resume. I’d suggest pursuing certifications related to cloud computing and, for PM knowledge, start with learning Scrum and Agile methodologies. If your budget allows, consider the CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management) certification from PMI to gain a solid credential.
Best of luck!
Denise Heffron, PSM, PMI-ACP, PMP
Experience Strategy
25
Answers
North Aurora, Illinois
Updated
Denise’s Answer
Transitioning into a project management consulting role with cloud computing skills, bolstered by a Project Management Certificate, can be a strategic career move. Here are some steps to effectively make this transition:
1. Leverage Your Existing Skills and Experience
- Cloud Computing Expertise: Highlight your skills in cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) and how they can benefit project management, such as cost optimization, scalability, and reliability.
- Project Management Knowledge: Emphasize your understanding of project management principles, methodologies (Agile, Scrum, Waterfall), and tools (JIRA, Trello, MS Project).
2. Secure a Project Management certification
- Through either Google or PMI you can obtain a certification even at entry level in project management. There are also government grants you can secure to help with this in the US, https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/wioa/programs
- Gain Comprehensive Knowledge: Ensure you thoroughly understand the concepts and methodologies covered in the certificate program.
- Hands-on Projects: Complete all hands-on projects and case studies included in the course to build a portfolio of your work.
3. Build a Portfolio
- Document Case Studies: Create detailed case studies of past projects, focusing on how you managed them, the outcomes, and the tools/methodologies you used.
- Showcase Cloud Projects: Highlight projects where you utilized cloud computing, detailing the challenges and solutions.
4. Network and Connect
- Join Professional Networks: Engage with online communities like PMI (Project Management Institute), LinkedIn groups, and cloud computing forums.
- Attend Industry Events: Participate in webinars, workshops, and conferences related to project management and cloud computing.
5. Gain Practical Experience
- Freelance or Part-time Roles: Consider taking on small projects or freelance roles to gain consulting experience.
- Volunteer: Offer your project management skills to non-profits or community projects to build experience and network.
6. Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile
- Highlight Relevant Skills: Ensure your resume and LinkedIn profile emphasize your project management and cloud computing skills.
- Certifications: Include your Project Management Certificate prominently.
7. Prepare for Interviews
- Common Questions: Prepare for common project management interview questions and scenarios, focusing on cloud-related projects.
- STAR Method: Use the Situation, Task, Action, Result (STAR) method to frame your responses.
8. Seek Mentorship
- Find a Mentor: Connect with experienced project management consultants who can provide guidance and insights into the field.
- Join Mentorship Programs: Look for mentorship programs offered by professional organizations like PMI.
9. Continuous Learning
- Stay Updated: Keep abreast of the latest trends in project management and cloud computing.
- Advanced Certifications: Consider pursuing advanced certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) or cloud-specific certifications.
10. Apply Strategically
- Targeted Applications: Apply for roles that specifically require or value cloud computing skills in addition to project management.
- Tailored Applications: Customize your resume and cover letter for each application, emphasizing how your skills meet the job requirements.
1. Leverage Your Existing Skills and Experience
- Cloud Computing Expertise: Highlight your skills in cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) and how they can benefit project management, such as cost optimization, scalability, and reliability.
- Project Management Knowledge: Emphasize your understanding of project management principles, methodologies (Agile, Scrum, Waterfall), and tools (JIRA, Trello, MS Project).
2. Secure a Project Management certification
- Through either Google or PMI you can obtain a certification even at entry level in project management. There are also government grants you can secure to help with this in the US, https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/wioa/programs
- Gain Comprehensive Knowledge: Ensure you thoroughly understand the concepts and methodologies covered in the certificate program.
- Hands-on Projects: Complete all hands-on projects and case studies included in the course to build a portfolio of your work.
3. Build a Portfolio
- Document Case Studies: Create detailed case studies of past projects, focusing on how you managed them, the outcomes, and the tools/methodologies you used.
- Showcase Cloud Projects: Highlight projects where you utilized cloud computing, detailing the challenges and solutions.
4. Network and Connect
- Join Professional Networks: Engage with online communities like PMI (Project Management Institute), LinkedIn groups, and cloud computing forums.
- Attend Industry Events: Participate in webinars, workshops, and conferences related to project management and cloud computing.
5. Gain Practical Experience
- Freelance or Part-time Roles: Consider taking on small projects or freelance roles to gain consulting experience.
- Volunteer: Offer your project management skills to non-profits or community projects to build experience and network.
6. Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile
- Highlight Relevant Skills: Ensure your resume and LinkedIn profile emphasize your project management and cloud computing skills.
- Certifications: Include your Project Management Certificate prominently.
7. Prepare for Interviews
- Common Questions: Prepare for common project management interview questions and scenarios, focusing on cloud-related projects.
- STAR Method: Use the Situation, Task, Action, Result (STAR) method to frame your responses.
8. Seek Mentorship
- Find a Mentor: Connect with experienced project management consultants who can provide guidance and insights into the field.
- Join Mentorship Programs: Look for mentorship programs offered by professional organizations like PMI.
9. Continuous Learning
- Stay Updated: Keep abreast of the latest trends in project management and cloud computing.
- Advanced Certifications: Consider pursuing advanced certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) or cloud-specific certifications.
10. Apply Strategically
- Targeted Applications: Apply for roles that specifically require or value cloud computing skills in addition to project management.
- Tailored Applications: Customize your resume and cover letter for each application, emphasizing how your skills meet the job requirements.