Thinking about a career in project management? Whether you’re a natural organiser, a born leader, or just want to explore a role that spans across almost every industry, becoming a project manager could be your ideal path. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to get started, from essential skills and qualifications to real-world experience and career pathways.
What is a Project Manager?
A project manager is responsible for planning, executing, and delivering projects on time, within budget, and to scope. They serve as the central hub for communication, making sure everyone involved knows what needs to be done and when.
Project managers can be found across many industries, including IT, construction, finance, healthcare, and defence. While the specifics may vary, the fundamentals of the role remain consistent: deliver value through structured coordination of people, processes, and tools.
Duties and Responsibilities of a Project Manager
Project managers juggle a wide range of responsibilities. Common tasks include:
- Defining project scope, goals, and deliverables
- Creating detailed project plans and timelines
- Allocating resources and managing budgets
- Communicating with stakeholders
- Leading cross-functional teams
- Monitoring progress and managing risks
- Conducting post-project evaluations
Great project managers keep the project moving and the team aligned, solving problems before they become roadblocks.
Project Manager Skills
Whether you’re managing a software rollout or a construction build, these skills are essential:
- Leadership and team management
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Time management and organisation
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Budgeting and financial planning
- Risk management
- Proficiency in project management software like MS Project, Jira, or Asana
Educational Requirements and Project Manager Qualifications
While some project managers enter the field with a degree in project management or business, others build careers based on industry experience.
Typical qualifications include:
- Bachelor’s degree in business, management, engineering, or related fields
- Certifications like PRINCE2, AgilePM, PMP (Project Management Professional), or CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management)
- Master’s degrees or MBAs (optional but valuable for senior roles)
Understanding different project methodologies (Waterfall, Agile, Scrum, etc.) is also a big plus.
Common Interview Questions for Project Managers
Preparing for a project management interview? You might be asked:
- How do you manage project scope and prevent scope creep?
- Tell us about a time you managed a difficult stakeholder.
- How do you prioritise competing tasks or requests?
- Which project management tools do you use and why?
- How do you deal with a project that’s behind schedule?
Practice your answers with real examples that show your impact.
Pathway 1: Becoming a Project Manager Without a Qualification
1. Explore Where the Gaps in Your Project Management Knowledge Are
Use free online resources, blogs, and videos to identify which areas you need to improve. The ARM blog on Delivery Managers vs Project Managers is a good place to start.
2. Get as Much Project Management Experience as Possible
Volunteer to lead internal projects at work, even if they’re small. Look for chances to manage timelines, coordinate teams, or track progress.
3. Use the Right Project Management Software
Familiarise yourself with tools like Microsoft Project, Trello, Asana, or Jira. These are often essential in modern project environments.
Pathway 2: How to Become a Certified Project Manager
1. Identify Which Project Management Certification is Right for You
If you’re just starting out, consider the CAPM or AgilePM. If you have some experience, PMP or PRINCE2 might be a better fit.
2. Get & Maintain Your Qualification in Project Management
Once you choose your certification, complete the training, pass the exam, and maintain your qualification through continued learning or professional development units (PDUs).
How Our Project Management Recruiters Can Help
Looking for more personalised advice? Don’t miss our upcoming Q&A with one of ARM’s project management specialist recruiters, where we dive into what employers are really looking for and how to stand out. At ARM, our specialist recruiters know what it takes to succeed in project management. We support candidates at all stages of their journey – from entry-level PMs to seasoned professionals.
Our team offers:
- Career advice and CV tips
- Access to leading employers across sectors
- Industry insight and interview preparation
- Help identifying the right roles for your skills
Upload your CV here and let’s find your next challenge.
Get in Touch
Looking for your next move or a career change into project management?
- Search our latest vacancies
- Contact our team directly
- Learn more about how we help at ARM
We’re here to help you take the next step in your project management career.
