Getting Started Isn’t as Hard as You Think
Many professionals dream of moving into project management but feel unsure where to begin. The good news is, you can start gaining relevant experience right where you are—without waiting for the perfect role or title.
At Infocareer, we’ve guided hundreds of learners through their first steps. Here’s our take on how to gain project management experience in ways that fit your career stage.
Step 1: Spot the Experience You Already Have
Before looking elsewhere, take stock of your current role. You may already be:
- Leading a small team for a deliverable
- Managing deadlines and coordinating with multiple departments
- Finding solutions when plans go off track
These are all core parts of project management. Recognising them is the first step to building your profile.
Step 2: Take Ownership of Projects at Work
Even if you’re not officially a project manager, you can volunteer to lead internal projects. Examples include:
- Overseeing a process improvement initiative
- Coordinating a department event or training
- Managing a client deliverable from start to finish
Document your timelines, budgets, and results—these details show real project management experience to future employers.
Step 3: Volunteer Beyond the Workplace
Community projects can be a great training ground. You might:
- Organize a charity fundraiser
- Lead a cultural or sports event
- Coordinate a skills development workshop
These opportunities strengthen leadership, planning, and problem-solving skills.
Step 4: Learn from an Experienced Mentor
One of the fastest ways to learn how to gain project management experience is by working with someone who’s already been there. A mentor can:
- Share practical insights
- Suggest opportunities to apply your skills
- Help you focus on what employers value most
At Infocareer, mentorship is at the heart of our PMP® and Agile training programs. This turns theory into real-world readiness.
Step 5: Grow Your Network
Many projects come through referrals and connections. Joining professional groups, attending events, and engaging with online communities can open doors to opportunities you wouldn’t find in job postings.
(External resource: PMI – Project Management Institute)
Step 6: Strengthen Your Profile with Certification
While experience matters, certification adds credibility. For beginners, the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)® is a strong starting point. Once you’ve built some experience, the PMP® certification can position you for leadership-level roles.
Putting It All Together
Learning how to gain project management experience is about taking small, intentional steps—leading projects at work, volunteering, finding a mentor, networking, and validating your skills through certification.
Infocareer’s mentoring-led approach helps professionals move confidently into project roles, combining training, real-world practice, and personalised guidance. If you’re ready to take the first step, explore our upcoming programs and start building your project management career today.