How Can One Learn Basics Of Project Management

Are you preparing to become a project manager but you don’t know where to start?

What does being a project manager actually mean? Are you always the leader of your group who likes to keep everything and everyone organized and with a goal in mind?

If your answer is yes, you could be on your way to a career in project management.

Project management is one of the most complex fields of work out there. Be prepared for a true adventure you’ll never get bored of. There is no space for dullness in this profession. A project manager (PM) is responsible for leading an entire project through initiation, planning, execution, control, and completion.

Where should one start to become a project manager? Keep reading;

Research and Communicate (for beginners)

Whether you are simply curious or seriously considering a career switch, the first step involves researching exactly what the project management profession entails. This can also be achieved by reaching out to online education providers, looking up course details, and speaking to individuals in the industry

Team up with a mentor

Pairing up with a mentor can be a big help not only for your professional development but also that of the mentor, a win-win situation for both parties.

As a mentee, you should devote some of your time to learning from the mentor. This can include completing agreed tasks to help you practice in certain areas and also to free up some of their time to educate you.

Mentors will spend time advising you on your current situation and on how to get to the situation you would like to be in. A good mentor will empower you to be better and there will be a high level of trust, honesty, and respect in the relationship. Confidentiality is key!

Enroll in an online course

Once you’ve finalized your decision to enter the field of project management, online courses are an excellent option. The flexibility and timeline offered by online courses may be a more suitable option than committing to an entire multi-year university degree. Online courses are also viable as a means of upskilling

Improve your skills

As you contemplate a career in project management, it is important to examine your personality. Can you deliver under pressure? Would you describe yourself as a risk-taker? How do you handle team dynamics? How about your communication skills? You need these skills described above to manage projects successfully.

Take account of the skills you have and commit to working on your areas of weakness. Keep in mind that you might be good in one area and not so good in others. Don’t beat yourself up. Skills are learned over time.

Get project management certification

Certifications give you a competitive edge and also show that you are credible. It also shows that you have industry experience. Look for training programs that offer these certification courses and enroll. It is a crucial step especially for someone who is new to the industry and wants to learn the basics of project management.

What Next?

If you are convinced project management is your next career after going through these steps, do not postpone your dream. Take the next step and start. The journey will be challenging, but it is worth it.  Not sure about the first step to take? This Project Management course will help you with the basics and more importantly it will steer your project management career in the right direction!