8 Reasons To Become a Project Manager
A project manager works within many fields, like construction, technology or finance, supervising the completion of important projects. If you’re looking to begin a role that allows you to use your skills and training to lead teams and create meaningful results, you may consider pursuing project management. Understanding the potential benefits of a project management position can help you develop the skills, education and training necessary to succeed.
In this article, we describe the requirements to get a project management position and list 10 reasons to become a project manager to help you develop a meaningful career.
What are the requirements to become a project manager?
Although they may vary based on the field where a project manager works, here are the most common requirements to become a project manager:
Education
Those seeking a career in project management often receive a bachelor’s degree in project management or in a related field such as business administration. Since project managers may work in a variety of fields, it can also be helpful to earn a bachelor’s degree in your desired subject area, like architecture or economics. While a school’s business department often oversees its project management degree program, some schools may offer project management degrees through other departments, such as the engineering, construction management or computer science departments.
Although many project managers earn a bachelor’s degree, some may also further their education with a related master’s degree program, like one in project management. While not all employers require this, your desired field may have specific education requirements for project managers. In some cases, a project manager may find a position with an associate degree and sufficient professional experience.
Experience
Since a project management position often requires leadership skills and experience within a field, becoming a project manager may require you to first gain lower-level industry experience. For example, you may begin your career in a role as an assistant to a project manager or pursue other relevant management roles. As you gain experience, you might manage individual projects, products or teams in preparation for larger project management responsibilities. Pursuing an internship within your desired field can also help you gain the necessary experience for a role as a project manager.
Certification
Many employers don’t require project managers to earn certifications, but there are some voluntary certifications that can help you develop additional skills for your role. Project managers often hold a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, which the Project Management Institute (PMI) offers. This certification demonstrates a project manager’s skills, experience, education and knowledge about their field. Additionally, project managers can seek certifications in specific software, technology or programs common within their field.
Skills
In addition to field-specific competencies, some skills that project managers need include:
- Leadership: Managing the successful completion of projects may require responsibility delegation, communication, guidance and training abilities.
- People skills: To work with multiple team members, clients or contractors, project managers may develop skills in communication, empathy, compassion and collaboration.
- Attention to detail: Project managers often keep track of multiple important details, like budget requirements, for each project.
- Organization: Project managers may develop systems to maintain multiple resources, plans, sketches or other documents.
- Time management: It’s often important for these professionals to complete work on time so that projects finish on schedule.
- Financial understanding: Project managers may manage financial resources to ensure that projects meet budget requirements.
8 reasons to become a project manager
Here are 8 reasons that you may consider becoming a project manager:
1. Impact
Project managers often have the ability to make an impact through their work. Since they’re leaders on a project’s team, project managers may make decisions that directly benefit those who may use the project. For example, a project manager in construction may oversee the creation of buildings or structures that improve a community. Additionally, project managers can impact a company by managing the successful completion of high-quality projects.
2. Multiple industries
Becoming a skilled project manager can allow you to apply your skills in a variety of fields. This means that you can often find a relevant position that matches your training and personal preferences. Additionally, you may be able to use your skills to switch between fields. This can give you the chance to challenge yourself and expand your knowledge base.
3. New skills
As a project manager, you may take on a variety of roles and responsibilities to guarantee project success. While some of these may sharpen the skills and competencies you already have, some may give you the opportunity to learn new skills and expand your portfolio. For example, to oversee a project, you may learn how to use budget tracking software. After mastering the software, you may be able to use those skills for your next project or role.
4. Leadership
If you’re interested in a position that allows you to take responsibility for important projects, you may consider becoming a project manager. As a project manager, you often manage a large or complex team, which may require you to engage with employees, delegate responsibilities and make important decisions that can have major effects on the company. While it may be challenging to lead important projects, overcoming those challenges can offer you personal and professional benefits when the project succeeds.
5. Collaboration
Project managers may work with a variety of employees, clients or contractors from different backgrounds. This can give them the chance to learn new perspectives and share skills and knowledge. If you have effective people skills and enjoy working collaboratively with others, a project manager role may be a good fit for you.
6. Continuing education
Project managers often have the opportunity to advance their skills and knowledge through continuous training, learning or certification. As technology advances, project managers may take courses to master new skills. They may also participate in conferences and networking events that allow them to share expertise. Pursuing a project manager role can allow you to advance your professional capabilities.
7. Flexibility
As a project manager, you may be able to determine a work schedule that best suits your lifestyle and preferences. Since project management work is often deadline-driven, you may choose which working hours allow you to be the most productive. For example, you may want to work primarily in the evening. As long as you reach goals and meet deadlines, your employer may allow you to work when you feel most efficient and comfortable.
8. Remote work
Project managers may work remotely or within a hybrid work environment. Since project management work often involves communicating with contractors and employees, managing resources and collaborating with clients, a project manager may be able to complete most of their work through computer software or online communication platforms. Since many project manager jobs are remote, you can select a role that matches your preferences without geographical limitations.
