It’s universally graduation month, and as newly minted graduates don their caps and gowns, the future, likely looms large in their minds.
This week, I had the privilege of speaking at my alma mater, Warwick Business School’s annual Alumni conference. My topic was entrepreneurialism and the critical role of digital marketing, and honestly, I wasn’t expecting a large contingent of project managers. I was wrong.
As the event concluded, a diverse queue had formed, and the overwhelming question on everyone’s lips was: “How do you become a project manager?”
From an enthusiastic early-career student curious about the basics to an experienced program manager, seeking ways to share his decades of experience in steel and car manufacturing, and even an old colleague currently pivoting his skills to seize new opportunities amidst recent disruptions – the passion was palpable.
Project management is a vibrant field, its influence ever-expanding, offering a clear path for those eager to transform futures, one project at a time.
These conversation really resonated with me. And this powerful interest begs some critical questions for both aspiring and current project professionals alike: What truly makes for a great project manager in a world grappling with growing uncertainty, escalating risks, and a rapidly shifting human-to-automation dynamic? Where can professionals best position themselves to capitalize on this wave of change? And how do you set yourself apart when excellence abounds and “black gowns and mortarboards” are everywhere?
Navigating the New Project Landscape: Simple Principles for Success
The traditional view of project management, while still foundational, is changing. Today’s successful project professionals are not just taskmasters; they are strategic thinkers, empathetic leaders, and agile adaptors. Here are some guiding principles you can immediately employ:
1. Embrace Adaptability and Agility
The world is in flux, and so are projects. The ability to pivot quickly, learn from setbacks, and iterate on solutions is paramount. This isn’t just about using agile methodologies; it’s about cultivating an agile and growth mindset.
- Principle 1: Invest time in understanding various frameworks (Agile, Scrum, Kanban, Lean) and consider the wider certifications. More importantly, practice scenario planning and risk mitigation with a flexible approach, be always ready to adjust your course. Think of project plans not as rigid blueprints, but as living documents that evolve with new information and challenges.
2. Master the Human Element: Seek to develop beyond the reports
Projects are delivered by people, for people. In an era where automation is taking over repetitive tasks, the uniquely human skills of emotional intelligence, communication, negotiation, and leadership become even more critical.
- Principle 2: Actively develop your soft skills. Seek out opportunities to lead diverse teams, resolve conflicts, and foster collaboration. Practice active listening and empathy. Remember, a great project manager motivates, inspires, and clears obstacles for their people and stakeholders, creating an environment where everyone can thrive.
3. Cultivate Digital Fluency and Strategic Foresight
While you don’t need to be a coding wizard, a strong understanding of digital tools, data analytics, and emerging technologies is no longer optional. This digital fluency, combined with the ability to foresee future trends, allows you to strategically position yourself and your projects.
- Principle 3: Stay curious about advancements in AI, machine learning, and data analytics. Understand how these technologies can optimize project processes, predict outcomes, and enhance decision-making. Don’t just react to change; anticipate it. Regularly read industry reports, attend webinars, and engage with thought leaders in digital transformation.
4. Specialize and Generalize: The Emergence of T-Shaped Professional
To truly stand out, consider developing a deep expertise in a specific area (e.g., sustainable project management, digital transformation projects, healthcare IT projects) while maintaining a broad understanding of general project management principles. This creates a “T-shaped” professional profile that is highly valuable.
- Principle 4: Identify an industry or project type that genuinely interests you and where you see significant growth. Pursue specialized certifications or further education in that niche. At the same time, continuously refresh your core project management knowledge and methodologies. This blend of depth and breadth makes you incredibly versatile and appealing.
5. Build Your Narrative: Share Your Journey
The project management community thrives on shared experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting, your story holds value. Sharing your insights, challenges, and successes not only establishes you as a thought leader but also enriches the entire profession.
- Principle 5: Don’t be afraid to contribute to the community. This could mean writing articles, speaking at local meetups, mentoring junior professionals, or actively participating in online forums. Your unique perspective, honed through your specific projects and challenges, is a powerful asset.
The landscape of project management is indeed vibrant, offering immense opportunities for those willing to adapt, learn, and lead with purpose. The “black gowns and mortarboards” of today symbolize not an end, but a beginning—a launching pad for a career filled with impact and transformation. So, go forth, seek your path, and discover the extraordinary project manager within you.
What’s one principle you’re going to employ this week to elevate your project management career? Share your thoughts with us!
If you are interested in exploring executive level courses to enhance your project management career, Project management Global together with our partners at Warwick Business School are offering a 30% discount to PMG subscribers. To find out more click here for the Executive Leaders Programme and Here for the Emerging Leaders Programme.
