Over half of UK workers wish they could change career, rising to 72 percent for those aged between 25 and 34, according to research by long term investment savings specialist Standard Life.
“As we go through our lives, what motivates us and makes us happy in our job changes. For some, the priority is moving up the career ladder, for others, having the security to support their family. As well as making us happy now, our career is also a way to ensure our plan for the future is on track – which is why it’s good to see so many people view their pension as an important benefit at work,” Julie Hutchinson, Consumer Finance Expert as Standard Life is quoted as saying.
If you’re one of the people that have ‘itchy feet’ and are thinking of a change of career, you might consider a future in Project Management. It’s interesting, challenging and the pay is usually good. But what skills and attributes do you need to be successful in this field?
- You need to ask questions and then listen to what people are telling you – both the people that you are working with and the people you are working for. I know it sounds obvious but you’d be surprised how many people are so wrapped up in their own thoughts and plans that they don’t listen to and engage with other people. Communication is the key to success. You also need to use emotional intelligence to gauge how your team feels about the project and the work involved; you also need to ensure that you know exactly what the customer/your boss expects from the project.
- You must be a team player. Yes, you might be in charge but you’ve still got to work with people and that means getting on with them. Make sure that you delegate effectively, but also make sure that you take on your fair share of the work and lead by example. When you give instructions or orders, always ensure that everyone has understood them – if you don’t, then it’s your fault if there are problems.
- You should be willing to think outside the box and use all your knowledge and skills to solve any problems that arise – and problems will crop up on even the best managed project. Project management (especially at more senior levels) isn’t for people who expect to work nine-to-five. The more you put in, the more you’ll get out in both job satisfaction and financial rewards.
- Always try to hang onto your sense of humour – even in the most trying circumstances. Don’t turn into a mini-dictator – make sure you treat people how you’d like to be treated.
- And finally, try to get yourself some training so that you do a professional job! This is important, because it makes your life so much easier and less stressful.
At the moment we’re offering £25 off the price of our Project Management Course until 7th February 2016. So, if you feel you have some of the characteristics mentioned above and would like help in developing them, then why not have a look at details of the course and see if it could form the foundation of a new career for you.
Author: Diana Nadin
