How to Become a Project Manager
So, you’re thinking about how to become a Project Manager? It might sound a little mysterious at first, but trust me, it’s not as complicated as it seems. If you're organised, a good communicator, and enjoy juggling a bunch of things at once, this could be the job for you. And,bonus, there’s more than one way to get there.
What Does a Project Manager Actually Do?
Project managers are like the air traffic controllers of the business world. They're the ones who make sure everything runs smoothly, from the first brainstorming session to the final delivery. The job involves planning, coordinating, and managing a project from start to finish. Sounds simple, right? But there’s a lot going on behind the scenes.
A project manager is responsible for creating timelines, managing resources (people, materials, budget), and making sure the project stays on track. If anything goes off course, they swoop in to fix it, whether that means reworking the budget or adjusting the team’s approach. They’re the ones who make sure everything is in the right place at the right time.
You could be managing a software development project, overseeing the construction of a building, or organising a marketing campaign. The tasks might change depending on the industry, but the core responsibility is always the same: to make sure things are happening on schedule and within budget.
How Do You Actually Get Into Project Management?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer for how to become a project manager, but there are a few common routes. And the good news is you don’t need to have a super specific degree or a certain background to break into the field.
1. University Route (If You’re Coming from Uni) If you’re in uni or thinking about it, a degree in business management, engineering, or something similar can set you up well. You won’t start managing projects right away, but you can work your way up from an assistant or coordinator role. Some universities even offer specific project management courses, so if you’re already studying business or a related field, that could be an option to consider . And while having a degree can give you an edge, it’s not the be-all and end-all. Some of the best project managers have come from backgrounds in IT, construction, or even graphic design.
2. Apprenticeships & Entry-Level Jobs If university isn’t your thing, there are loads of opportunities to learn while you earn through apprenticeships. The UK offers a variety of project management apprenticeships where you can dive straight into the action. You’ll get hands-on experience in managing tasks, creating schedules, and working with teams while getting a qualification at the same time . You can find apprenticeships at various levels, even degree apprenticeships that combine uni studies with real-world experience.
If you’re aiming for an entry-level role right out of school, look for positions like project assistant or project coordinator. These roles might not have the title of “manager” yet, but they’re the perfect stepping stone. You’ll get a feel for how projects run, and once you’ve built up enough experience, you’ll move up.
3. Gaining Experience on the Job Experience is key in this field. If you’ve worked in any job where you’ve had to manage tasks, plan something, or handle deadlines, you’ve already got transferable skills. Whether it was organising an event, leading a group project, or even just managing your own time, these experiences will come in handy. You’ll want to prove that you can handle more responsibility by showcasing your problem-solving skills, organisation, and ability to keep things moving forward.
What Skills Should You Sharpen?
Being a project manager isn’t just about keeping things organised; it’s about making decisions, handling pressure, and working with different people. So, here’s what you should focus on to make sure you’re ready to take on this kind of role.
Soft Skills
Leadership & Communication: Project managers lead teams, and communication is key. You need to be able to motivate your team, explain the plan, and keep everyone on track. If you’re good at working with others and making sure everyone’s heard, you’ve got a solid start.
Problem Solving & Adaptability: Things rarely go according to plan, so you need to be able to think on your feet. Can you find solutions when something goes wrong? Do you know how to shift things around to keep the project moving forward? Those are the kinds of skills that’ll set you apart.
Organisation & Time Management: Keeping track of deadlines, budgets, and tasks is basically your job. You need to juggle several things at once, so the more organised you are, the better. It helps to be the kind of person who can keep their cool and get things done on time.
Hard Skills
Project Management Software: Tools like Trello, Asana, or Microsoft Project are used to keep everything running smoothly. Familiarising yourself with these platforms can make your life a lot easier. You don’t have to be a pro right away, but it helps to know the basics.
Risk Management: Every project comes with its risks. You should know how to spot potential issues early on and have strategies in place to manage them. Understanding budgeting and resource allocation will also help you avoid project hiccups.
Methodologies: You’ll probably hear about different ways of managing projects – PRINCE2, Agile, Scrum, and more. These are just different methods for getting things done. Some industries prefer one method over another, so understanding these can be helpful.
Where Could This Job Lead To?
Once you get started as a project manager, there’s plenty of room to grow. The career progression can vary, but here are a few potential paths:
Senior Project Manager or Programme Manager: After building experience, you can move into more senior roles where you manage larger or multiple projects. A Programme Manager often oversees a series of related projects and makes sure they align with the company’s broader goals.
Operations Management: Some project managers end up in broader operations roles, overseeing business processes or leading departments. The skills you develop in project management, like budgeting, problem-solving, and team management, are transferable to higher management positions.
Consultancy or Freelancing: If you enjoy the flexibility, you can move into consultancy or freelance project management. This gives you the chance to manage projects for various clients, often on a temporary basis. If you want variety, this could be a great option.
A Few Tips for Getting Started
Get Certified: While you don’t need a degree to get started, it can help to have some certifications. PRINCE2 or Agile certifications are solid options and will boost your CV.
Start Small: If you’re new, start with small projects. Maybe help out with planning a club event, or volunteer for a local charity’s project. Any experience you can get will help.
Network & Learn: The best way to learn is by doing, but it doesn’t hurt to surround yourself with people who are already in the field. Join groups or associations like the Association for Project Management to connect with others and keep learning.
Becoming a project manager is definitely a journey, but with the right skills, experience, and mindset, it’s a career that can take you places. It’s all about staying organised, solving problems on the fly, and working well with others. If that sounds like something you’d enjoy, go for it.
