What Is The Difference Between a Project Manager and a Project Management Professional?

Project Manager and Project Management Professional

If you’re looking for a career in Project Management Professional (PMP), want to learn what it takes to become a Project Manager (PM), or simply want to grow your repertoire of knowledge, you may be asking yourself, “What is the difference between a PM and a PMP?” The answer is quite simple, and the two are undoubtedly intertwined. Below, you’ll explore a multitude of projects PM's embark on, and also learn all about becoming a PMP.

PM's

This is someone with a certain skill set that allows them to envision, assemble, and act upon projects. For a more detailed explanation, please visit this website as it truly breaks down valuable characteristics and frames of mind necessarily to succeed at this position: https://www.pmi.org/about/learn-about-pmi/who-are-project-managers. Do you have an ability to see both the big and small pictures? Can you not only plan things, but also act out those plans? Are you organized? Can you accept change? Can you motivate others? If you’re saying to yourself, “Yeah, that’s me!” than perhaps you have what it takes. Here’s a link that lists some essential job duties: http://www.project-management-skills.com/project-manager-duties.html. You might lead a team responsible for the design of a product, work with an assembled team of business professionals, lead industrial designs, and even manage websites. Make no mistake- they have high standards to meet and shine brightest when the pressure is on them. With that said, you must be goal driven individuals who can execute plans.

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PMP's

These are individuals who are seeking out a degree in PMP or who have already done so. Different PM's may have earned different degrees not necessarily in the field. However, PMP's seek such a status, and want to stand out amongst others who might not have earned such a degree. In order to be perceived as a PMP you need a required degree or certification. One can obtain a PMP Certification from the Product Management Institute (PMI). According to PMI, there are certain prerequisites an individual needs before they can gain their Professional Management Certification. In all likelihood, individuals seeking a PMP status are those who have already succeeded in the field of PM. Check out the PMI website for more information on obtaining a certification: http://www.project-management-skills.com/project-manager-duties.html.

The Difference: Revisited

All and all, PM's and PMP's are people with similar drives but with a different status in the same career field. Someone with a certain skill set might land a Project Manager job, but might not be recognized as a Project Management Professional. That is dependent upon a degree, which one can attain at the PMI. In a sense, Project Managers are of a lower rank compared with Project Management Professionals. So, think you have what it takes? Then try your talents as a Project Manager. When you’re ready, you might find yourself on a path to become a Project Management Professional. Good luck!

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