How to Become a Certified Project Manager

Not only is the new job outlook for IT project managers good but IT project manager salaries are great. Per Lightcast 2022 data, the median advertised salary for IT project managers in the United States is $103,250—126% higher than the median national wage for all occupations. Entry-level Project Managers or those with limited experience may earn an average salary of around £45,000 to £65,000 annually.

Is becoming a project manager right for me?

• It’s important to establish boundaries, prioritize self-care, and communicate openly with your team and stakeholders to ensure a sustainable work-life balance over the long term.
• These certifications provide you with advanced knowledge of project management methodologies and enhance your credibility with employers, helping you learn how to become a project manager.
• Learn about how you can advance your career if you’re interested in project management.
• This understanding can be achieved through self-study, attending seminars, webinars or other training programs.
• So look at the specific skills, experience, and training that you need or is required.

You must also remember that core skills are transferable, allowing for versatility and potential diversification for the Future in Project Management. In addition to these skills, certain qualifications can bolster your Project Management career prospects. While not all organisations require formal certifications, they can help demonstrate your commitment to the profession. Completing these qualifications before finding employment isn’t necessary, as most employers provide recruits with on-the-job training. For that, you need to communicate your expectations and project objectives to the team. You can even discuss project progress and identify blockers in every stand-up meeting to ensure the highest quality is maintained by the team in the entire life-cycle assessment.

Step 3: Gain Practical IT Experience

Remember, it may take time to land the right job, so be patient and persistent in how to hire a software developer your search. When applying, make sure to write a well-crafted cover letter that explains why you’re a good fit for the role. In any field, having a robust professional network can be an invaluable asset. For instance, Trello is great for small, straightforward projects while Microsoft Project may be beneficial for complex, large-scale projects.

Career Progression in IT Project Management

There are formal project management education options for those who wish to take a more long-term approach. Many colleges and universities offer four-year bachelor’s degree programs in construction project management and general project management. If you’re looking for an alternative, shorter-term solution, consider a professional certificate program in project management.

What Is an IT Project Manager? And How to Become One

With experience and expertise, you’ll transition into the role of an Assistant Project Manager. Additionally, attend workshops, seminars, and conferences related to project management. These organizations often offer certification programs, such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or PRINCE2, which can enhance your credentials and make you more attractive to potential employers. You can use online job search platforms, such as Indeed or LinkedIn, attend job fairs, or use your network to find open positions.

Key salary factors include location, experience, certifications, company size and industry. For example, IT project managers in finance or technology may offer more compensation. Whether you are enrolled in a degree program or not, you should be looking for internships in project management or a similar field. If you’re in school, try to work a part-time job in some type of IT role.

A degree can equip you with essential knowledge and expand your job opportunities. Keep in mind that it is still possible to become an IT project manager if you have enough relevant experience. As you gain experience, skills, and expertise, you can take on larger and more complex projects, manage multiple teams, or specialise in specific domains.

Strong Job Demand Across Industries

You will often need a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field, and some roles may require a master’s degree or certification like the Project Management Professional (PMP) credential. As a project manager, your professional development does not end once you’ve secured a job. The skills and experiences you’ve gained will help you secure a rewarding project management role. Remember, understanding project management methodologies is not just about passing an exam or getting a certification. If you’re interested in construction project management, a degree in civil engineering or architecture might be more relevant. If you’ve ever envisioned leading a team to execute a project successfully or considered what it takes to become a project manager, you’ve landed in the right place.

Many employers prefer candidates with at least a bachelor’s degree, often in fields related to business administration, management, engineering, or computer science. However, extensive relevant work experience, coupled with professional certifications and demonstrable project management skills, can sometimes compensate for the lack of a formal degree. Project management may be a fitting career choice if you are highly organized, good at managing people and processes, and an excellent problem-solver. As a project manager, you might start as an expert in your field and progress to a management-level position.