About the profession of a project manager
The title of this position (or role) may sound different – project manager, project manager, project manager, project lead/leader, delivery manager, and variations on the theme. Sometimes they even write “product manager”, implying the usual project tasks, so always read the job descriptions carefully.
In job postings you can find the following among the tasks of a project manager almost everywhere:
- Compose and coordinate technical tasks;
- Set tasks for the team, distribute the workload, and motivate to win;
- Ensure that quality and deadlines are met within project budgets;
- Manage task prioritization;
- Identify and manage risks;
- Maintain project documentation;
- Build relationships with clients (customer), conduct meetings, calls and appointments.
Further tasks of a project manager and requirements for candidates vary from company to company, depending on the industry and specifics. Some companies require more product skills, some require technical background, and some require skills to describe business processes and launch advertising campaigns.
A project manager (PM) is not a promotion, it’s a different role. A good developer earns as much as a PM. The role of a project manager is good for those who like to communicate with other people, create problems and solve them successfully, pull something out on their own will, and then tell conferences about self-organization and efficient business processes.
You have a good chance of succeeding in this role if:
- You enjoy finding common ground with people from different “worlds.”
- You do not faint when you’re told the designer has no time to complete the task;
- You calmly take the emergence of new desires from the customer;
- You are able to read the contract from cover to cover;
- You enjoy taking care of people and helping them get results.