Career Advice for New Project Managers

27 September 2010

Play now, or download the podcast | Duration: 7:00

Lindsay Scott, director of program and project management recruitment, Arras People, London, England, answers questions from the Career Central audience about getting a start in project management.

Here’s a sampling of what you’ll learn:

Look to your current employer for project opportunities. Without experience, you may have a tough time targeting a company that doesn’t know your track record. Seeking a project management position where you already work gives you an edge on the competition.

Frame your experience within the context of project management. Even if you lack formal project management knowledge, you still may have project experience. Change the way you think about your work. Go into interviews ready to talk about how you’ve managed your assignments as projects.

Pay attention to the language the company uses in its job description. Many new project managers are intimidated at the prospect of leading a project on their own. Look for job postings with words like “support” or “coordinate” — indicating you’ll be working with other project managers.

Always include a cover letter specifically targeted to the job you’re applying for. To show you’re a good match, include solid examples of the specific skills and knowledge the company says it’s looking for.

Don’t try to cover up a career gap. Turn any lapses between jobs into something positive by describing how it was a learning experience and how it can help you on the job.

Listen to the full interview