Project managers offer proven methodologies to tackle new initiatives and solve problems so companies can reach their goals and thrive in the face of today’s tough business challenges.
The business world is becoming increasingly complex. Economic pressures, global market fluctuations and rising competition have made it more difficult for organizations in all industries to survive. Meanwhile, advancing technologies offer new opportunities and challenges for businesses around the world. That’s why so many firms – of all sizes – are turning to skilled project managers for help.
Project Manager Job Outlook
The Project Management Institute’s 2017 Job Growth and Talent Outlook report stated that project manager jobs are projected to increase at a brisk pace in coming years. By 2027, employers worldwide will need 87.7 million people working in project management-oriented roles. Keep in mind that a growing job rate does not guarantee employment. Prospective project managers should conduct independent research on the job growth rates, which may vary according to their region, specific industry, education and experience.
Potential Salary
According to a Project Management Institute’s 2018 Global Salary Survey, certified project managers earn 20% more annually than non-certified project managers in the United States. However, job seekers are encouraged to conduct independent research to determine actual earning potential, as project manager salaries may vary widely depending on location, education, professional certifications and work experience.
Job Duties
Project managers work in a wide variety of industries, from information technology to manufacturing. They may be employed by a government agency, engineering firm, or a construction company. Specific duties will depend on the industry and company they work for, but in general, project managers oversee projects that help the organization advance toward its goals.
For example, a telecommunications company may wish to roll out a new software update. A project manager will typically spearhead the project, from defining the objectives to creating the plans, budgets and schedules, and then supervising the project through implementation and from launch to completion.
Some of the specific job duties assigned to project managers include planning a project, defining the scope, managing resource allocations and budgets, tracking deliverables along the timeline, and providing direction and support to team members. These skilled professionals will also be called upon to maintain quality assurance, to report regularly to management and other stakeholders, and to solve problems that arise throughout the duration of the project.
Once the project is complete, the project manager is often tasked with evaluating the outcomes. If a project is successful, the project manager gets the credit. If a project fails, the project manager gets the blame. Many professional project managers apply the strategies and proven techniques of Six Sigma to achieve more efficient processes and increase their success rate.
Education and Training
Project managers have typically earned a bachelor’s degree in business, engineering or related field. Coursework may include accounting, statistics, , business administration, database management and economics. When hiring for project manager positions, many employers will choose applicants with work experience, professional education or both. Advancing in the field may require additional experience or an advanced degree.
In today’s competitive business climate, employers often show preference to candidates with a demonstrated skill set, including the ability to determine project needs and requirements, collect and analyze data, communicate well and lead teams effectively. Prospective project managers should consider Six Sigma training to learn these techniques and help enhance their career options.
A Project Manager’s Skill Set
To perform their jobs well, project managers rely on critical thinking and problem-solving skills, outstanding planning and organizational skills, and top-notch communication skills. They must also be good at managing people, flexible enough to deal with change on-the-fly, and able to forecast and mitigate risks. The first step in becoming a project manager is to obtain the right education and professional training. This challenging and rewarding career can be a great fit for individuals who are driven, self-motivated, and interested in becoming a valuable asset to employers in the business world.
