Accidental Project Manager

It’s July and I am back!

Yesterday one of my friends came over to talk about project management. He has been working as a developer for a while now and suddenly is the project manager overlooking a co located team of 36.

Obviously, he is nervous. Doesn't know where to begin. And wants to know what project management is and if he can actually pull off being one.

So, here are 5 tips for you if you are in similar situation like him.

  • Analyse the situation- If you have been pushed to the role and you are not ready for it, give it a try. There’s no harm in trying it out. If you are very confident, that is isn’t the career path you want to take- be clear about it. Like my friend wants to be an architect, but is ok to give this opportunity a try. To look for inspiration hear what other project managers are saying.
  • Prepare- The sudden push can get you into a panic attack, however, getting in touch with someone who has been doing this for a while is the best solution you can have. Plus have a mentor to guide you through the process. 
  • Read up- Certifications might be important if your organization wants you to have one, however before you even go into it, research the what’s available in the market and the finalize it. Don’t rush into certifications. Instead look into blogs and websites which provide you with a plethora of options to learn up easily from.
  • Learn about expectations- Find out why you have been chosen to take up the role, find what your team expects from you along with the primary stakeholders. Your knowledge of the expectations and role might give you a clue to better direction. 
  • Take a risk- Don’t be afraid to give it a shot. Turns out, it will also make you happier  
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To know more about project management read my book Stepping into Project Management (Welcome to the #PMOT World). To connect with experienced Project Manager's from all over the world, get mentored or shadow for a day see the SIPM Community.

2 comments:

Angela West said...

That is absolutely wonderful. I wish I could do that! So jealous!


Construction Management Software

Simon said...

I think there are a lot of accidental project managers. Somebody relayed a story, just because someone taps you on the shoulder and says "you are now a brain surgeon", it does not mean you can conduct brain surgery. However, so many organisations do this to create project managers.

Good post.

Simon