BJ is a subscriber to my PM Career newsletter from the USA and we had a great conversation. BJ graciously allowed me to post this slightly edited version for him. I invite you to? I invite you to share your questions and comments with me!
Clevergrrl via Flickr: Getting Unstuck
Hi Josh
Thank you for your email. Your site is my primary motivation for joining. I want to get out of the career rut that I am in. My experience in project management is close to seven years. I have been a Project Coordinator for the past three years. I have yet to make it to the next level in Project Management. I am a Project Coordinator for the last 3 years, but I know the PMP is my next step. I just needed a professional’s mentoring and opinion to ensure that I am ready for whatever comes next. Any assistance you can offer would be greatly appreciated!
I look forward to learning from and working with you!
Regards,
BJ
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Josh:? Josh: What activities are you involved in as a project coordinator? And what is the difference between a project manager and a coordinator in your organization?
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BJ:? As a Project Coordinator, I have worked with Project Managers to create and manage project plans using MS Project. I have also managed meeting minutes and scheduled meetings. I have also worked as a Business analyst, gathering requirements for various projects and conducting End User testing on several software projects. I am unable to put my experience together in a way that will allow me to manage a project by myself. I don’t know how to get my “big break”, but I hope you can help me!
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Josh:? I see. I have some ideas.
* Networking/finding mentors – It is crucial that you are interested in becoming a PM. There will be people who know you and will support you. They will help you find the right opportunities to get your foot in front of the door. * Managing “subprojects” – on larger projects, you may be able to manage one branch. * Volunteer work – you can manage projects for non profit entities and other organizations. You may have seen my story about how I proposed a project for a PMI-SIG so that it could be managed by me.
Do you feel “pigeon-holed”, that everyone sees you as a project manager and not a PM, or do you feel like this? If so, consider what key attributes you have that make you a PM in your company. You can use what I’ve just mentioned or any other method that you can to find ways to do so.
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BJ:? We are grateful for your insights! It was truly appreciated. If you are able, I would also love to inquire about your educational experiences. I am currently evaluating my options for education and wanted to get your feedback on the Project Management programs at Colorado Technical University. I found their BS program very interesting and wanted to know more about it. I live in Indianapolis and would be willing to work remotely.
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Josh:? I had a positive experience at Colorado Tech. My degree program was in-class so I can’t speak for their online programs, but they are likely to be good. You might want to look online to see if there are any local universities offering this degree program. There are many more options today than when I was in school.
