| Topic Name: |
project Management |
| Message Name: |
Project Management |
| Date Posted: |
07/05/2001 |
| In Reply To: |
What is it like working as a Project Manager? Is the Job 24/7 similar to a Network Analyst? What skills does one need to get to be a Project Manager? From the research Iv'e done..it seems one woule have to understand technology and not really be a super techie. advice appreciated....!!!!!
Lou |
| Message: |
Stress somewhat depends on how organization views PM...
In someplaces the PM has to SELL (or at least deal with the clinet alot). In other places the PM is given more of the "shepard" role -- assemble flock of developers and then watch the budget & timelines.
In neither case would the job truly be 24/7 as with a pager for Network Support. BUT you can expect to have our rear chewed out ( or worse) if the project runs into troubles (like cost overrun or delivery splippage).
How do you get in to it? Well there are no guaranteed paths but lots of folks get to PM after doing sales support, or assisting on proposal developement -- especially when the proposal work has lots of cost estimation.
There is a professional "society" for PMs to get certified -- mostly stresses budgetary concerns.
It helps to have an "in" as the role is truly one where effectively interfacing is vital. Unfortunately many (?most) folks in PM are better at kiss the a** of those above 'em than in patting the bak of those below 'em. IN a way you can't blame 'em, as they benefit from keeping their "supporting cast" underneath them so they look good. It can be hard to assemble a good team, talk 'em all up as to what stellar work they do and they see 'em promoted out from under you -- leaving you with a whole new crew for the next project...
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