Becoming a project manager is more than just a title and being in charge of a project. Many of the skills needed to be a project manager are not learned through experience in programming, or putting together IT networks. Project managers, while still needing the ''hands on'' experience of how things are done, need to develop other skill sets to oversee a project, or projects.
Project management is growing in the technical sector, and even in the business world. By way of project management you get things done not just as individuals, but also as a team, you create a better working atmosphere, and motivate the company at large to do much better overall. When thinking about becoming a project manager, you should first ask yourself if it is for you.
Project Manager Duties
A project manager is the lead man of any project assigned to the team. He or she must have great personal relations skills to be able to motivate the people around to accomplish the goals. The project manager works directly with clients, determines the best way to proceed, sets budgets, makes sure schedules are met, and manages all communications. Problem solving is one of the major responsibilities of a project manager. A project manager who can think on his/her feet, and has great deductive reasoning skills is a huge asset to any company.
Project Manager Training
While it is possible for someone to move into the position of a project manager without any formal education, it is, nevertheless, very difficult. As the business world, and with that the technical world, gets more advanced companies are looking for those with degrees, MBA's, and other formal types of training. For the most part, people with project management experience are accepted above others with no experience at all.
The good news is that an increasing number of seminars, weekend trainings, and certificate courses are being offered for those interested in project management and moving up within their organizations.
Those looking into moving up into becoming a project manager will need expertise in the actual project. If you are in the technology field, having knowledge of setting up networks, working with electronic devices, and creating plans for company wide networking will be required of you. A project manager, should not only have people skills, but should also have real in depth knowledge of the project to be done. Candidates having these capabilities will be able to move into being project managers.
