Why Now is the Time for a Project Management Career Change

In my work as a project manager career coach in the financial services sector, I often get asked when is the “perfect moment” to change careers. However, experience has shown that this "perfect moment" is, in fact, a myth.

Understanding the Project Manager's Career Crossroads

Many reach a point where they question the next step of their career, despite having achieved considerable success. This is not indicative of failure, but rather a sign of professional growth and evolving aspirations.

Common questions that arise include:

- "Is this all there is to my career?"

- "Am I making a meaningful impact?"

- "What happened to the passion I once had for this work?"

These questions reflect a natural progression in a project manager's career journey. They signal a readiness for new challenges and a desire for the alignment of personal values and professional goals.

The Power of Intuition in Career Decisions

In my conversations with project managers, I often emphasise the importance of intuition. That unsettled feeling many experience when contemplating their current role is not to be dismissed. It's a culmination of years of experiences, successes, and challenges, silently processed by the subconscious mind.

Successful career changers often report a strong intuitive pull towards a new direction. Trusting one's intuition is not making impulsive decisions.

Instead, it involves:

1. Acknowledging and respecting what your gut is telling you 

2. Figuring out what are the root causes of dissatisfaction

3. Validating intuitive feelings through thoughtful reflection and research

This balanced approach of using both intuition and the strengths of logic and data which project managers usually possess, leads to more satisfying career transitions for the project managers.

The “Perfect Moment” Trap

In my coaching project managers, many fall into the trap of waiting for ideal circumstances before initiating change.

Common postponement rationales include:

- Waiting for children to reach a certain age

- Completion of a significant project

- An upcoming performance review

- [Insert your excuse here]

These are excuses, which often delay action. The reality is that perfect conditions for career change rarely, if ever, materialise. Life is unpredictable, and waiting for the perfect moment often results in missed opportunities.

Strategic Approach to Career Transition

If you are a project manager considering a career change, here are my top three tips to help you get started:

1. Define Your 'Why’: Articulate the driving forces behind your need for change. This serves as a motivational anchor during the transition process. If you need help figuring this out, why not take our Project Manager Career Audit?

2. Explore Without Commitment: Engage in low-risk exploration activities such as networking, volunteering, or job shadowing. These provide valuable insights without requiring immediate major changes.

3. Set Actionable Deadlines: Establish concrete timelines for small steps towards your career goals. This might involve updating your professional profile or enrolling in relevant courses.

The Next Chapter Starts Now

Every day of procrastination is a lost opportunity for potential fulfilment. The cost of inaction extends beyond the professional realm, often impacting personal satisfaction and overall life quality.

It's important to recognise that you're not alone in this journey. Many project managers have successfully navigated similar transitions, moving from uncertainty to rewarding new career paths.

The notion of a perfect moment for career change in project management is, in reality, a myth. The right moment for change is now. By trusting your intuition, prioritising your professional fulfilment, and taking strategic steps towards change, you can enjoy a more satisfying career.

Remember, your future professional self is dependent on the actions you take today. The time for positive change in your career is not a distant future date – it's now.