The How and Why of Becoming a Project Manager
Does the “Great Resignation” era have you thinking about a career change? Looking to bolster your resume with a new skill set? Let’s dig in to see how and why becoming a project manager might be the right fit for you.
What is the demand for project managers?
The need for project managers outpaces the demand for many other occupations today. A PMI-commissioned study by Anderson Economic Group (AEG) speculates that project management-related jobs will increase by 33% from 2017 to 2027. By 2027, close to 88 million workers could be needed to fill project management positions.
What about pay?
According to indeed, the average salary for project managers is $77,699. For project managers with Project Management Professional certification (PMP), the average base salary is $110,000 per year. (PayScale)
What skills are needed?
Project management positions are available across a wide variety of industries but a bachelor’s degree in a business or technical field is a great start.
Highly organized problem solvers who can pivot quickly and communicate well with a team are the hallmarks of a project manager.
Honestly? You may already be well on your way to honing project management skills if you are performing some of these tasks at work:
- Budgeting
- Scheduling
- Generating reports for stakeholders
- Managing a team
- Leading meetings
Those tasks are all in the project manager’s wheelhouse.
Is certification necessary?
It is worth considering some type of project management certification. While certification isn’t always required, earning one will open more job opportunities. There is a wide variety of certifications but the most prevalent is the Project Management Professional certification (PMP).
Project Management Institute (PMI) offers PMP certification that can be done online. Valid for 3 years, PMP certification can be renewed through the accruement of PDU (professional development units) via activities like continuing education classes.
Could project management be a good fit for you?
Test the waters. Recent college graduate? Consider taking an internship or leading a volunteer effort. Looking for advancement at your current workplace? Take initiative and ask for more project-oriented roles. Already gaining the practical project management experience at work? Think about getting a Project Management Professional certification (PMP).
If you are looking for a well-paid, in-demand, career that spans a wide range of industries, project management may just fit the bill.
Resources
PMI (2017). Project Management Job Growth and Talent Gap 2017-2027. (pmi.org)
Project Manager salary in United States. (indeed.com)
Project Management Professional (PMP) Salary. (payscale.com)
Verma, Eshna. (2022, March, 15). 8 Reasons Project Management is a Top Career Choice. (simplilearn.com)
Delos Santos, Jose Maria. (2022, February, 22). 2022 Guide to Becoming a Project Manager. (project-management.com)
