How do you become a program manager? There are many paths as this isn’t a clear cut role straight from a traditional college degree.
- One way into program management is to work your way up from project management. If you have your PMP or Scrum Master certification, it could be the next natural step in your career progression. I got my PMP because I knew I wanted to be a program manager next.
- Another way to become a program manager is to own initiatives at your company. Build hands-on experience managing stakeholders, budgets, and timelines. No one is going to gift you these opportunities so pay attention and when you hear about a new project, volunteer to take the lead.
- Program managers further business goals and show results, so practice reporting your impact up the chain. Create some Power BI dashboards or slide decks sharing metrics. Put your name forward to present outcomes at town halls or team meetings. That visibility reminds executives you are a leader who makes a difference in the organization.
- Find a mentor and upskill. Reach out to people with the program manager title and ask if you can pick their brain over coffee. Utilize LinkedIn to stay current with industry trends and best practices.
There is no clear cut path to program management, but if you stay focused on the goal, you can work your way towards that career. It took me a couple of years of planning and positioning to earn the title, and the role has been as fulfilling as I anticipated.
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