What a project manager does
A project manager plans the work, organizes people and resources, manages risks and keeps the project on track until it is delivered.
Projects run in almost every field: construction, IT, healthcare, banking and NGOs. The skills carry over from one field to another, so you can often start in the sector you already know.
You may already have project experience
Have you organized an event, coordinated a team task, or helped launch a product or service? That is project work, even if your job title did not say so.
Write these experiences down. Note what you planned, who you worked with and what you delivered. They help you in interviews, and you may need to describe them when you apply for a certification later.
CAPM or PMP: which comes first?
The CAPM, from PMI, is an entry-level certification. It does not ask for experience leading projects, so it suits students, recent graduates and career changers.
The PMP, also from PMI, is for people who already lead projects. PMI asks for project management education and experience leading projects, and the amount of experience depends on your education.
You can start with the CAPM and aim for the PMP once you have more experience.
Build skills you can show
Learn planning, budgeting, risk management and how to work with people. Practice on real tasks at work, or as a volunteer with a local organization.
Ask to lead small projects. Each one gives you experience you can describe to employers.
Where to start
Our Project Management course builds a foundation for the CAPM and the PMP. It covers project planning, budgeting, risk, resources and the full project lifecycle.
Both certifications are awarded by PMI, which sets its own requirements. Read our CAPM and PMP pages, then message us on WhatsApp to talk about your next step.