I am struggling in the PM realm.
I have my PMP, CSM and am working through LSS to get a black belt and have been doing PM for years however I haven't always had the title. Everything I see requires a 4 year degree (I'm almost 5o with a 2 year) or some sort of specialized experience in one field which you can't get without getting the degree. Like a dark rabbit hole. Any suggestions?
Anonymous
04/29/24 at 4:21PM UTC
I went back and got an MBA through WGU (Western Governors University) at 57. https://www.wgu.edu/. It has accelerated courses to you can complete the degree faster. It also is good about credit transfer. Hope this helps.
Robin Lampert
Managing Projects & Achieving User-Centric Value
662
03/22/24 at 10:17PM UTC
With both the experience and certifications, it seems like you'd be a good candidate for many PM positions. Unfortunately many resume weeders don't seem to recognize that. It's hard to know what will work for you, I'd suggest
(1) networking to get around the resume weeders. Is there a PM or PMI group in your area?
(2) Adjust your resume to focus on the years of experience. I've gotten differing advice about using unofficial job title, but even if Project Manager wasn't the official title, use it to start a bullet point. Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) make it harder to re-arrange your resume to put your certifications and experience ahead of your 2-year degree.
Unfortunately, you're probably also experiencing some age discrimination. While you want to make it clear you have years of experience, you need to be careful about how many years you show on your resume. :-(
Here are some other resume suggestions: https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/automated-screening-resume
Good luck!
Anonymous
03/25/24 at 2:52PM UTC
Thanks Robin, I actually sit on the board as the VP of Operations of our PMI Chapter in my area and belong to 3 other chapters within the state. I'll review the resume again, AI is our best friend and worst enemy at this point with algorithms weeding through our resumes. It really does cause massive bias.
Robin LampertManaging Projects & Achieving User-Centric Value
662
03/28/24 at 12:13AM UTC
I hope you already have that board position on your resume.
You sound amazingly qualified for a good position, and I hope you get one soon.
