This job series is part of all Project Management jobs in Switzerland series, check our other focus on the blog
Project managers don't just juggle tasks; they're the maestros orchestrating the symphony of every project!
Their job is to plan, execute, and oversee projects from conception to completion.
Their responsibilities include
They also navigate through challenges and make pivotal decisions to keep the project on track, all while communicating progress to stakeholders and maintaining the harmony of their team. 😉
Maybe less obviously, you're tasked with risk management, proactively identifying and addressing potential issues to keep the project on course.
Strong leadership is essential to guide and motivate team members, coupled with exceptional communication skills for effective information dissemination.
You'll oversee task assignments, monitor progress, maintain comprehensive documentation, and ensure adherence to quality standards, legal and ethical guidelines. So, multitasking, and being able to keep your head over water under stress will be crucial.
Lastly, regular updates to stakeholders are vital, and post-project, you'll evaluate outcomes against initial goals to assess success.
We aren’t called “Mythbusters moonwork” for nothing… Fine, maybe only we call ourselves this, but we love to get to the bottom of false stories. And these ones are just too good to not be debunked:
1. Myth: Project Managers Are Strictly Technical Skills Oriented: - This is a big, big myth! While technical skills are important, project managers also need strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills to effectively manage their teams and ensure the successful completion of projects.
2. Myth: Project Managers Have Complete Control Over Projects - Another common myth is that project managers have complete control over every aspect of a project. In reality, they often have to work with various stakeholders, each with their own interests and priorities. They need to negotiate, persuade and collaborate with these stakeholders to keep the project on track.
3. Myth: Only Large Companies Offer Significant Project Management Roles: Another myth is that meaningful project management opportunities exist only within large corporations. However, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Switzerland also offer diverse and impactful project management roles, often with more varied responsibilities.
Honourable mentioning:
The future of the Project Manager role is expected to evolve significantly due to advancements in technology and changing business landscapes. Not really a surprise, huh? We know... But with that trend, the role will likely become more strategic, with a greater emphasis on data-driven decision-making, risk management, and innovation. On top, Project managers are expected to handle increasingly cross-functional and multidisciplinary projects, requiring a broader understanding of various business areas and technologies.
Additionally, they will need to be well-versed in agile methodologies as businesses continue to prioritize speed and flexibility. Sustainability and social impact are also expected to become key considerations for projects, requiring Project Managers to have knowledge in these areas as well.
Starting a career as a project manager can come through a variety of routes, paths and circumstances. But if we had to bet, this is the best way to get things rolling:
So, you want to get your foot in the door? Let us be a little bit unorthodox here and let’s take a step back.
Start by identifying the key skills you possess that align with a Project Manager role. These may include leadership, communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills, as mentioned earlier and match them with your project managing experience.
Use this insight to create an unbeatable cover letter and application. For that, structure your accomplishments using the STAR framework (situation, task, action, and result) – this shows your ability to communicate clearly and execute from start to finish.
But we aren’t finished yet. Next, you will research potential employers to understand their company culture, project types, and methodologies used. Look for companies whose values align with yours and that offer projects that match your interests and skills. This alignment is crucial for long-term job satisfaction and career growth.
Lastly, apply strategically: Don't just apply to every job you see; instead, focus on those where you meet most of the qualifications and feel confident that you could excel.
Bonus Tip: Use our easy video application at moonwork to stand out among other candidates and leave a personal and remarkable impression.
Happy applying!