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Are you a planner? Or do you fly by the seat of your pants?
Maybe you're already a project manager!
Are you the person who organizes everyone else to get things done?
Do your friends think you're weird because you really love “to do” lists?
Do you ask for help when you need it?
Do people always want you to be in charge and explain the plan?
If the answer to these questions is yes, project management might be for you.
What does a project manager do?
Setting goals
Making a specific and measurable goal that everyone agrees on
Writing a plan
Brainstorming ideas
Breaking the ideas into tasks
Agree on how you will check progress
Organizing people
Deciding who does what
Communication
Budgeting
Making sure the project stays within budget
Quiz
Which of these everyday activities involve the most project management skills?
You'll be using some project management skills for all these activities, but a birthday party uses the most: planning a location and date, managing a budget, communicating with guests, and making sure it's an awesome party!
Did you know?
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Pros and cons of being a project manager
Pros
Good money
Exciting
Cons
Long hours
Stressful — often dealing with deadlines and problems
Qualifications
What kind of program should you choose?
I have been studying for project management certificates this year and it took me a while to find one that worked for me. But once I did I enjoyed it a lot more than I thought would! I recommend asking yourself these questions. I ended up doing the Google Project Management Certificate.
How do you learn best?
Do you prefer to study by yourself, with a live instructor, in person, video courses online, text books? By yourself or in a study group?
I studied by listening to YouTube videos while walking my dog!
Bachelor's degree
Many employers require some kind of bachelor's degree, especially for access to more senior roles eventually. A business degree will be really helpful but not essential.
You can also find master's degrees in project management.
Industry experience
Previous experience in industries such as construction, IT, and healthcare can be alternate routes into project management.
The Project Management Institute is a great place to learn more about certifications that are well respected by employers.
You'll get well paid and can expect good opportunities to increase your salary.Take Action
Get prepared for your project management program!
This Byte has been authored by
Clare Simmons
Instructional Designer, Project Manager, Teacher
BA