Project Management Entry-level Jobs Jobs in Nigeria

What is project management?

Project management involves the planning and organization of a company's resources to move a specific task, event, or duty toward completion. It is the application of processes, methods, skills, knowledge and experience to achieve specific project objectives according to the project acceptance criteria within agreed parameters.

It is often associated with fields in engineering and information technology (IT) which have complex sets of components that have to be assembled to create a functioning product. But no matter the industry and field, project managers have the same job: to help define the goals and objectives of the project and determine when the various project components are to be completed and by whom. They also create quality control checks to ensure completed components meet a certain standard.

Importance of project management

• Project management promotes clear communication and collaboration towards achieving the desired goal and objective. 

• It ensures that projects are completed on time while following the due project life cycle. 

• It helps to streamline processes and reduce inefficiencies, ultimately saving time and money for the organization.

• A well-defined project can identify and mitigate potential risks before they become major issues. 

• It ensures that there is tight quality control throughout the project life cycle. 

• Project management also helps you to make better business decisions in the long run, especially as regards the end result of the project. 

Skills needed for project management

• Knowledge of project management methodologies such as Agile, Scrum, Prince2, Waterfall and Lean. 

• Knowledge and understanding of project planning and scheduling.

• Knowledge of project scoping and forecasting.

• Ability to do project tracking, reporting and project budgeting.

• Ability to assess and manage risks.

• Strong communication and negotiation skills. 

• Ability to be proactive and make decisions.  

Project Manager job description 

• Coordinate internal resources and third parties/vendors for the flawless execution of projects

• Developing project scopes and objectives, involving all relevant stakeholders and ensuring technical feasibility

• Ensure that all projects are delivered on time, within scope and within budget

• Develop a detailed project plan to track progress

• Use appropriate verification techniques to manage changes in project scope, schedule and costs

• Measure project performance using appropriate systems, tools and techniques

• Manage the relationship with the client and all stakeholders

• Perform risk management to minimize project risks

• Establish and maintain relationships with third parties/vendors

• Create and maintain comprehensive project documentation through the project life cycle. 

How to become a Project Manager 

1. Define the Project Management Skills You Already Have: To begin your journey as a project manager, you must define what skills you already have in the field. You must also define which tools you are familiar with and can use. With this, you identify your skill gap and what you need to improve on.

2. Close the Skill Gap You Identify: The next thing you want to do is to close up the skill gap you have. This can be done by taking up online courses, YouTube videos or materials/resources that can help you develop the skills you may be lacking. 

3. Build Project Management Experience: You can begin to build project management experience from your network, no matter how little. Take on smaller projects so you can practice the skills you learn. 

4. Apply for Project Management Entry-Level Positions: Beginning with entry-level positions will enable you to learn all you need to learn, and give you a more professional experience. You will have more opportunities to strengthen your skills and gain real-life experience in project management.

5. Get Certifications in Project Management: You can also get certifications in project management to further establish you as a credible project manager. Online courses or degree programs will help you become a certified project manager and increase your chances of being hired by a reputable firm.