What does a career in Project Management involve?
If you’re thinking of embarking on a new career in project management, but haven't fully researched the role yet, we break down what a position in project management actually involves
A project manager is responsible for the smooth and effective running of projects across all industries but there are a large number of elements that go into completing this process successfully.
In this blog, we look at how it all works and what it’s like to become a certified project manager.
Hitting targets
A brief is usually formed and approved by an organisation’s key stakeholders with goals and objectives set. It’s then up to the project manager to understand the brief and then plan and implement the processes towards achieving them.
There will be a unique set of KPIs (key performance indicators) for each task, that a project manager will be expected to consider throughout, and these will be used to measure the success or failure of a task. There will also be a constant flow of communication to stakeholders, to monitor project progress.
Time management is a crucial part of being a project manager. Deadlines will be part of the brief and will dictate when the project needs to be concluded. These also influence how the project is led and which methods are used to complete it.
Leading a team
Project management heavily involves you leading and working in a team. A regular task will be to check in with the relevant team members to ensure that things are running smoothly. Holding appropriate and effective meetings to delegate tasks and keep everyone updated.
Keeping your team motivated and focused is a key part of a project management role. Identifying an individual's strengths and weaknesses is the foundation for a good project manager and you’ll learn methods of how to do this effectively in all of our foundation project management certifications.
Handling risk and obstacles
As a project manager you’ll be expected to predict and minimise risk and efficiently deal with any obstacles during a task. This usually takes place as part of the initial
planning process and continues throughout the project until completion.
Any potential risks or obstacles can mean elements of the project strategy may have to change. As the project manager you’ll need to calmly and effectively communicate this to all relevant stakeholders and team members to ensure that any changes are carried out correctly.
Hear from real project managers
Felicity James talks about a typical day at her role at Sky TV as a marketing project manager.
“After checking through my emails, the rest of the day consists of status meetings, client calls, checking budgets, asking for resources and updating timelines.”
Bryony Seal, project manager for a leading digital agency, spoke about her favourite parts of the role.
“As a project manager, I’m right in the heart of the project - making sure that all the other pieces of the puzzle fit together. It’s brilliant.”
Spencer Hobbs, a project manager for Network Rail, loves that his tasks can be ever-changing.
“There really is no typical day as a project manager, your tasks and time can vary day on day depending on what a project needs.”
What Is PMP and why is it valuable?
What is PMP? The Project Management Professional (PMP) is a globally recognised certification that demonstrates your ability to manage projects effectively. When comparing PMP or PRINCE2, PMP is often preferred for global roles, making it an ideal choice for remote workers.
Key skills include leadership, time management, budgeting, and communication. Employers value candidates who’ve completed a PMP project management course, as these provide practical tools and frameworks used in real-world settings.
Get started today
If you’d like to discuss how you could have a fulfilling and rewarding career in project management, simply get in touch with one of our expert career consultants today.
Related Articles
Project Management39% of Core Workplace Skills Will Change by 2030: What This Means for Project Managers
A rapidly changing employment market means that AI proficiency is now a critical must-have skill for today's Project Managers, alongside technical and human skills. Project Managers must now pair traditional expertise like Agile and stakeholder communication with practical AI competencies in order to develop in their career.
Read More
Career AdviceOnly 55% of Gen Z in UK Feel Job-Ready as Skills Gap Widens
Only around half of young people in the UK feel they have the skills they need to land a job. With the narrowing of entry-level routes and the growth of AI, earning career-ready skills through professional certifications in tech and project management can open doors for Gen Z career builders and changers.
Read More
How to Get a Job with No ExperienceHow to Get a Coding or Software Development Role With No Experience: Expert Guidance
Breaking into coding or software development without experience is possible if you focus on the right skills, build proof through projects, and apply for suitable entry-level roles. In this guide, I walk through the practical steps that can help you get started with more clarity and confidence.
Read More
Changing CareerThe Most Common Career Changes for Nurses in the UK
Thinking about a career pivot from nursing? Discover the best and most common career changes for UK nurses — and how to make the move with confidence.
Read More