What do you do if you want to acquire new skills in program management?

Its a step by step approach - Perform a self assessment to identify strength and weakness, perform a competency analysis as well - Once we identify the skill gap , set the target for the desired competency to be reached and timeline - Set learning goals and plan to attend the trainings -Explore other learning opportunities like external trainings, online forum, networking events etc - Continuously monitor the progress and seek feedback as you progress on the journey

If you want to learn more about program management you should first take a look at the skills you already have. To do this, you need to know your skills and weaknesses in different areas of program management. You can find out where you need to improve by using tools like skill frameworks. This will help you set clear learning goals.

To enhance your program management skills effectively: Utilize Assessment Tools: Leverage frameworks like the PMI Talent Triangle to pinpoint skill gaps. Set Learning Goals: Based on your assessment, prioritize areas for development. Seek Formal Education: Consider courses or certifications that align with your goals. Engage in Practical Application: Apply new knowledge in real-world projects to reinforce learning. Focused assessment and targeted learning pave the way for skill enhancement in program management.

There are multiple options available either classroom training or online training which can be taken in online or offline mode. Attend workshop and networking events, try to find a mentor which is align with the learning goals have regular session with him\her and get feedback on progress and improvement. Make sure too create peer learning groups for knowledge sharing. Professional certification as per goal and carrier aspiration can also be completed

We all learn in different ways. Recognise and get comfortable with your own personal style. Don’t forget the final step - teach your newly acquired knowledge to someone else (there’s no better test!).

Pick the ways of learning that work best for you and your situation. Besides online classes and reading materials, you can also choose from workshops, mentorship programs and certification programs. You can successfully learn new things if you adapt your learning style to fit your needs. This is true whether you are learning in a classroom, through social interaction or through handson experience.

I would suggest to assess what problem to tackle and find a suitable tool to learn / improve. I personally prefer classroom / virtual classroom to try the methods for the first time. As it takes a while to make something new a habit, think about integrating reminders in your life, e.g. put a sticky note on your screen or draft a template. Also, make sure to put a meeting with yourself for a retrospective in the calendar for 3 months after you start learning.

If it is necessary to acquire new skills in program management, some recommendations would be: ? Participate in program management training courses and certifications such as PMI-PgMP, which can help you acquire new skills and knowledge in program management. ? Seek opportunities to lead more complex and challenging programs, to develop program management skills and meet new challenges. ? Seek mentors and support networks in program management, they can provide you with guidance and support in your professional development. ? Participate in program management industry conferences and events and stay up to date on the latest trends and practices in program management.

I would highly recommend to ensure proper education or mentoring whenasking for more complex projects / programs. Otherwise the complexity of leading a program team can easily overwhelm an unprepared candidate.

…and most importantly - please ensure you try out your newly acquired knowledge on your project or programme…that’s where the real learning happens?

Continuous improvement is a state of mind and a habit that successful programme managers have in abundance. Keep feeding your habit - little and (very) often.

Even though our lives can be busy at times, especially as a program manager, it is highly important to safeguard some time in a certain period (be it a week or a month) to reflect on your effectiveness and efficiency. I recommend to block an hour to retreat from the beloved firefighting mode and think. It may be during a walk, with a cup of tea or just listening to music. Bring something to write or dictate your ideas and structure them only in the very end. This will allow you to distinguish between what feels urgent and what is really important both for your program and your personal development.

Taking certifications and courses is an excellent way to acquire new skills in program management. It provides a structured learning path, flexibility to study at our own pace, access to expert instructors, hands-on exercises, and case studies.

Have you ever considering getting the PMI's PgMP (Program Management Professional) certificate? It's an excellent way to prove yourself but also is a great incentive to prepare in both theory and practice for what is needed from a Program/PRODUCT manager. Yes! a product manager too... the PMI has set a ground for common knowledges in both roles/disciplines. Therefore, your lessons learned are also applicable to the world of product management.