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At networking events, I speak to many project managers and recently gave a presentation on the similarities and differences between PMP(r), PRINCE2(r), and CAPM(r). There were many questions afterwards. This is to be expected as training is a significant investment in time and money. You want to ensure that you choose the right path to maximize your return.
Problem is, people want me to make the decision for them.
They say, “But you know this stuff.” “What would you do?”
It puts me in a difficult position and people don’t like my answers. These are some of the most difficult career questions I have been asked at events, as well as the answers they didn’t like to hear (although in real life I was polite). All identifiable details have been removed.
“I work in software development/engineering/anything and I want to move into management. Which course would work best for me?
A management course? Or do you mean project management? What industry are you in and how much experience do your have in your field? What is your employer’s value and where do they want you to be in 10 Years?
Based on the information I have received, I cannot give you any advice.
I would love to get to know you if you are interested in personalized career coaching. You could also do your own research to plan your career and pick what suits your needs.
“I work in IT. What’s the best project management certification for me?”
What are your colleagues like? What do you expect from your employer? What kind of projects do your employees work on? Why do you need a project management certificate?
I cannot give you advice based on one sentence. It’s better to discuss this with your manager or yourself.
“I have 8 years of work experience, but I don’t have the job title Project Manager.” Are you eligible to apply for PMP?
How can I tell if you are able to pass the PMP exam based on what you have said? For all I know, you might be a fisherman. Although you might be a very skilled fisherman, it doesn’t automatically make you eligible.
“Should PRINCE2(r), or PMP?”
Who knows? I don’t have enough information to give you any advice. No one should be able to answer that question without more information. You can use your certificate to get a job if you research the value of your sector in your country.
You can use your certificate to manage projects better than if you start from scratch.
You probably won’t get any benefit from a project management doctorate if you don’t have one.
“Which certification is more valuable?”
Who has more value? You won’t get far in the UK government sector if you don’t have a working knowledge PRINCE2(r). That’s what’s valued. Different employers value different things. Do your research on what your employer (or target employer/sector) values and then go for it.
“Which certification has more recognition?”
Who? By me, the recruiter: PRINCE2 (r). I work in an environment where all my coworkers have PRINCE2 (r). If you tried to use the language and processes of PMBOK Guide(r), you’d struggle to understand until you adopt PRINCE2 (r). This doesn’t mean that I wouldn’t hire you.
PRINCE2(r), would not be’more recognized’ by everyone. Because you know what? Every country, every industry, and every employer is different. Do your research to find the best fit for your career goals.
“Which is better, PMP or CAPM?”
Each is equally good. They are made for two different levels. Which one is best for you? I don’t know much about you so I can not say.
“I am a project manager, can I take the PMP?”
I don’t know much about project engineers. Even if you did, I don’t know much about your education or experience in t
