You want to start a career in project management. What are the most important skills you need to have?

1 Scope management

One of the first and most crucial skills you need to have as a project manager is scope management. This means defining and controlling what is and what is not included in your project, and how to handle changes and requests along the way. Scope management helps you to avoid scope creep, which is when your project grows beyond its original boundaries and becomes unmanageable. You need to be able to communicate clearly and effectively with your clients and stakeholders about the scope of your project, and set realistic expectations and boundaries.

3 Risk management

A third key skill you need to have as a project manager is risk management. This means identifying and analyzing the potential threats and opportunities that may affect your project, and planning and implementing strategies to mitigate or exploit them. Risk management helps you to reduce uncertainty, avoid surprises, and increase your chances of success. You need to be able to use tools and techniques such as SWOT analysis, risk register, and contingency plans to manage your project risks proactively and reactively.

4 Team management

A fourth vital skill you need to have as a project manager is team management. This means leading and motivating your project team members, and facilitating collaboration and communication among them. Team management helps you to leverage the skills, knowledge, and experience of your team, and to create a positive and productive work environment. You need to be able to use tools and techniques such as RACI matrix, feedback loops, and conflict resolution to manage your project team effectively and efficiently.

5 Stakeholder management

A fifth important skill you need to have as a project manager is stakeholder management. This means identifying and engaging with the people who have an interest or influence in your project, and managing their expectations and satisfaction. Stakeholder management helps you to build trust, rapport, and support for your project, and to avoid conflicts, issues, and complaints. You need to be able to use tools and techniques such as stakeholder analysis, communication plan, and stakeholder feedback to manage your project stakeholders successfully and respectfully.