New to Project Management? Start Here
Stepping into project management comes with a steep learning curve. New Project Managers are faced with all kinds of new terms, processes, and expectations – all while trying to keep projects on track. With so much to learn, it’s hard to know where to start.
But don’t worry, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. I’ve got some proven strategies to help you succeed in your new role.
Tip one: Get clear on project scope
I cannot stress enough how important this is. No matter what size of project you’re working on, getting clear on what’s included and what’s not included in a project’s scope will save you time in the long run.
You want to get clear on the objectives, deliverables, and priorities of your project, document these in a scope statement, and get it approved by your sponsor. That will help to prevent misunderstandings and scope creep, and help you get everyone on the same page.
Tip two: Prepare to learn and adapt
One thing you should expect as a new PM is that your project plan is not and one and done. On projects, not everything goes according to plan, so you have to be adaptable. Be ready to pivot and be flexible when needed.
Just as important for new PMs is being on the lookout for opportunities to learn – that’s how you’ll improve in your role. At the end of project milestones, take time to look at what worked, what didn’t work, and what you learned, and then document your learning for future projects.
All this to say – when you’re a new PM, you should aim to grow continuously in your role.
3 more tips for new project managers
I have three more tips I want to share to help you survive as a new PM, so I made a video that dives into them. It explains:
- Where you must be realistic, and when to build in buffers
- The one thing that helps you navigate challenges with stakeholders
- How to promote alignment and avoid misunderstandings
Follow me over to YouTube and we’ll keep chatting about this!
If you want to go above and beyond to make your project management career successful, take a look at my SLAY Project Management course where I give you all the templates, tips, and techniques to implement to make every project successful.
Adriana Girdler, PMP | Creator of Slay Project Management™
P.S. Check out what one of my students said recently about SLAY:
“What truly stood out was the excellent value for money. With lifetime access to the course materials, I feel confident that I made a worthwhile investment in my professional development.” OV
