How to become a project manager [Video]

Thinking about a career as a project professional but not sure where to begin? Whether you have just left university or are thinking about a change of career we can help advise you. APM has created an introductory video 'How to become a project manager' on what your project management career path could potentially look like.

The video explains that in order to become a project manager you can acquire the essential skills over time; building your experience, year on year, project by project, until you reach the highest of professional standards… Or you can seek a more direct path; gaining the qualifications you need to rise to the top. Alternatively, you can combine those approaches, in a way that suits you.

No matter what your experience or background, you too can be part of something huge.

So what is project management? Everywhere you look, projects are underway. Our video ‘What is project management’ explains it clearly by stating, ‘Put simply, project management is about getting things done. It’s about knowing exactly what you want to achieve, how you’re going to achieve it, and how long it will take’.

Project managers work on specific projects that have definite outcomes, have time limits and have to stay within a budget. Projects don’t just happen. They’re a masterpiece of planning, management, organisation and communication. Every successful project needs a project manager with the skills, knowledge and experience to keep their eye on every detail and ensure its smooth delivery. They also need leadership qualities, and the ability to make decisions.

To find out what core skills you need to have read more about project management and careers on the APM website. You’ll find out more about the competences you will need to develop and the courses you can take. APM offers a progressive structure for your career development, with courses offering the ‘fundamentals’ of project management through to ‘management’ and ‘professional’ levels of understanding, requiring more advanced learning and assessment.

You can also begin your career as an apprentice. APM believes that apprenticeships are essential to assist the growth of the project management profession. That’s why we have teamed up with employers to develop an apprenticeship that helps to grow and develop talented project managers.

Follow this and you too could have a rewarding career or, as the video says, as a project manager, your professional skills could be your passport to a career of limitless possibilities. APM knows that the best project managers don’t just need skills, they need passion and professionalism, too. Which is why APM, as the Chartered body for the profession, is ideally situated to help you develop your career, supporting you every step of the way to the world of possibilities that lie ahead.

Find out more about project management and discover what tools and resources are available to help you on their professional journey. Enjoy the video!