Skilled Migrant Professionals February 2015 | Page 18

Career 10 STEPSin to a career project management So you want a change? You want to work in project management but you are not sure how to progress this ambition? What next? What should you do? P roject management attracts different people for many different reasons. A lot of misconceptions exist about what it takes to land a job in this field. The decision to work in project management can be motivated by a number of different factors. You could be bored with what you currently do, or you want to push yourself to do something that is goal-oriented. Maybe you have seen what successful projects have achieved and would like to be part of a team that achieves a high-profile outcome. Or, maybe you feel that this is the next stage of your career. Whatever the reason, you need to be clear on WHY you want to move to this area, because there will be times you will question this decision! 1 Do some research Making a plan to move into a new career area is the same no matter whichever area it is. The first thing that someone interested in project management will need to do is to undertake some research like: What types of projects are you interested in? Realistically, which type of projects could you work in (considering your qualifications and existing experience)? The result of this research should determine if you should proceed further 18 www.smpmagazine.com.au | February 2015 by Irena Morris Project manager/director with over 20 years’ experience in industry and consulting. Irena set up and manages a successful Registered Training Organisation (RTO); is a performance coach (Human Synergistics); and a registered recruiter. She migrated from Kenya 25 years ago. TIP #1 Research available jobs on SEEK and other job boards. These give you an understanding of the available work in the marketplace and the types of roles that are being recruited for. with your ambitions. It should tell you if you fit the profile (in terms of experience), which industries are advertising (this shows they are expanding), salary levels, and other such information. It is always a good idea to narrow down the industry area you are targeting and this should be based on your experience.