APM Mentor series
This Q&A is part of our APM Mentor series, where experienced professionals share their insights to help students and early-career project managers succeed.
In this edition, Alexander Bangert, Head of Programmes, Micro Nav Limited offers practical advice and encouragement for those just starting out.
What’s one piece of advice you wish you’d received when you were starting out in your career?
The following isn't strictly my personal experience but it's advice I would give.
Don't be afraid to ask for help or guidance. The vast majority of people should welcome your curiosity and desire to learn.
Don't be intimidated by the organizational structure. Senior people will welcome questions from enthusiastic and curious young professionals. They are, after all, the future of the business.
It's not something I experienced personally but if no-one in your organisation has the time to help or mentor you move on but make the most of your time while you’re there.
Respect the experience and expertise of experienced people. They may not have your qualifications or life experience but they may have a lot to teach you.
How can students make the most of networking opportunities while still studying?
I would strongly recommend joining the local APM Network and, if you can, participating in the local version of the APM Project Challenge. I’ve been involved in my local networks version for the last 3 years and I think it’s an excellent opportunity for apprentices and people in full time study.
What’s a common mistake you see early-career professionals make, and how can students avoid it?
Understand that you are at the start of your career. Regardless of your academic achievement there is much to learn both from your own professional development and the people you will work with both inside and outside the organisation. Networking with, and learning from, people in upstream and downstream organisations in your supply chain will give you a different perspective on, and insight into, your role.
What skills or qualities do you think will be most valuable in the workplace over the next few years?
How can students build confidence in their abilities, especially when they’re just starting out?
I think this is largely a matter of personality and the support provided by others. Maybe seek out people who are willing to help and support and do not allow others to influence you. Accept that you will not succeed in everything but seek to learn when things don’t go your way. In the words of a better man than me – Success is not final, failure is not fatal, it’s the courage to carry on that counts.
