What do you do if you're struggling to find entry-level positions in Project Coordination?

1 Assess your skills

The first step is to assess your current skills and identify your strengths and weaknesses as a potential project coordinator. You can use online tools, such as the Project Management Institute's (PMI) Talent Triangle, to evaluate your skills in three domains: technical, leadership, and strategic. Technical skills are related to the specific tools, methods, and processes that you use to manage projects. Leadership skills are related to how you communicate, motivate, and influence others to achieve the project objectives. Strategic skills are related to how you align the project with the organizational vision, mission, and goals. By assessing your skills, you can determine which areas you need to improve and which ones you can highlight in your resume and cover letter.

2 Gain more experience

The next step is to gain more experience in project coordination, even if it's not in a formal or paid position. You can look for opportunities to volunteer, intern, or freelance for organizations that need project coordination support. You can also join or create your own projects, such as organizing an event, launching a website, or developing a product. These experiences will help you develop and showcase your project coordination skills, as well as expand your network and portfolio. You can also use these experiences to demonstrate your achievements and results in measurable terms, such as time saved, money raised, or quality improved.

3 Get certified

Another step is to get certified in project coordination or management, which can boost your credibility and competitiveness in the job market. There are various certifications that you can pursue, depending on your level of experience and education. For example, the PMI offers the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) credential, which is designed for people who have little or no project experience. The CAPM requires you to have a high school diploma or equivalent and 23 hours of project management education. Alternatively, you can opt for other certifications, such as the CompTIA Project+ or the Scrum Alliance Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), which focus on specific aspects or methodologies of project management.

4 Network and apply

The final step is to network and apply for entry-level positions in project coordination. You can use online platforms, such as LinkedIn, Indeed, or Glassdoor, to search for and apply for jobs that match your skills and interests. You can also use your existing contacts, such as friends, family, colleagues, or mentors, to ask for referrals or recommendations. Additionally, you can attend events, workshops, webinars, or meetups related to project coordination or management, where you can meet and learn from other professionals in the field. You can also join online communities, forums, or groups, where you can share your insights, ask questions, and seek feedback. By networking and applying, you can increase your chances of finding and landing your first project coordination job.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?