If you have been working in IT for a while, it is well worth considering taking the next step and becoming a project manager. Doing so has many advantages, you can earn more money and it is extremely satisfying work. However, project management jobs are unlike many other IT jobs, so you need think carefully before taking on such a role. Just because you have been working in the industry for several years does not mean that you are suited to a management role.
Skills you Need and How to Get Them
If you have never worked in a leadership role before you may struggle with the people management aspects of the role. People and leadership skills do not come naturally to everyone. If you think, you may want to apply for management roles it is wise to take on some low level supervisory tasks at an early stage. Doing so will look good on your CV and give you the chance to see if you really enjoy leading a team. Leadership skills are something that you learn gradually, so take every chance to lead that is offered to you. Even if you are not a natural, you can gradually learn ways to organise and motivate a team. Bolstering these experiences with specific management training, when offered, is also a good idea.
A project manager needs to be organised. Being organised in your day-to-day life and in your current IT work will help to improve your organisational skills. It will also make you more productive in your current role.
When working as a project manager you will have to work very closely with people from other parts of the business. You need to be able to do this effectively, so good communication skills are crucial. Again, there is no better way of gaining and practicing these skills than by plunging in. In your day-to-day IT work, you will have the chance to work closely with others, take every chance you get to be the one to go to the development meetings and to be involved in the training. Doing so will help you to be an effective project manager and it will look good on your CV.
Once you have acquired the necessary skills, experience and taken the management courses offered to you can begin to look for your first IT management role. When you are ready to do so, you should go online.
Find your first Project Management Job Online
The vast majority of IT project management jobs are advertised on specialist IT job boards. This means that is where you must go to find them.
Take the time to put together a strong CV. The best job boards offer good advice about how to do this, so it makes sense to follow that advice. Once you have done so upload it to their database. In addition, sign up for email notifications of jobs. If you do apply for jobs use tools to manage the application process.
