How to Transition to Project Management from Non-IT Roles

I obtained my PMP in 2018 and even then I wasn't ready to be a project manager. I thought I was. ❌ I applied to jobs roughshod ❌ I started networking randomly ❌ I used the same generic resume ❌ I got rejected constantly and was frustrated ❌ I did very little prep for interviews, preferring to "wing it" ❌ I had a "take a chance on me" attitude and quit for long periods It wasn't until I did some introspection that I realized, I was standing in my own way. I wasn't: 👉 Doing the research on the companies/roles I wanted to work for 👉 Prepping my interview story and valid answers to questions 👉 Tailoring my resume accordingly to each role I wanted 👉 Seeking out feedback on rejections for growth 👉 Networking and upskilling with a purpose Once I learned what I wasn't doing well (I still didn't do everything right), I: ✅ Networked with people/PMs in the jobs I was applying to for more info ✅ Sought feedback from rejections and built experience in those areas ✅ Did background research on the companies/projects I applied for ✅ Intentionally added deficient skills and experience to my resume ✅ Practiced and prepped for interviews based on my research It led to more interviews, better relationships, and eventually, 3 offers at the same time. So if you're not getting the results you want, Do a little introspection on what you're doing (or not doing). There's likely room for improvement. What pain points are you struggling with currently?  Let me know in the comments how I can help! PS: I share a BUNCH of tips on making a career pivot into your first PM role through my free "30 Days to PM" email cohort.  If you're interested, grab it below in the comments 👇

I almost didn’t apply for my current role. The job description asked for 8-10 years experience in a client-facing project implementation role. It also listed a BA in finance or business. I have neither. Though I met the other requirements (strong organization skills, flexibility, ability to work closely with a team), and they “preferred bilingual,” which I always jump at, I hesitated. I knew that I could translate my varied experience in other roles to the 8-10 years of experience they were looking for. AND, I know the statistics of men vs women applying for jobs. 🎤 (Men will apply if they meet 60% of the requirements; women don’t apply unless they meet 100%. Women apply for 20% fewer jobs than men.) I told myself, "A man with my exact experience would definitely apply." Also, I was in various stages of interviews at multiple companies. I knew I shouldn’t stop applying. This was the 2nd to last job I would apply for, and I almost let doubt stop me. So, despite not meeting the first two bullet points, and despite never having held the title of "Project manager,” I sent in my Project Manager-focused resume, and it got me an interview. ✔ My resume got me the interview, 👉 And then it was up to me to show the value I would bring to the company. ✔ I showcased my confidence in my project management skills during all 3 interviews. My personality and attitude (according to my recruiter) were an important part of why they continued to consider me as a candidate. ✔ Confidence in myself and my value-add was key. ✔ I didn't let Imposter Syndrome get in the way. Now I have a job that I almost didn't apply for, At a company I am super excited to be a part of. And I bring value every day. 👉 Don't let doubt talk you out of your next steps.  👉 Be confident in yourself and your abilities. Is your value clear on your LinkedIn? On your resume? PS: What value do YOU bring to the table? #projectmanagement #transitioningteachers #careerpivot

Thinking about a career change? Here’s how to actually make it happen, step by step. I’ve spoken with hundreds of people stuck between “I don’t want to do this anymore” and “But where do I even start?” Here’s the truth: Changing careers isn’t about starting over. It’s about repackaging what you already know, and proving you can solve a new set of problems. Here’s how to do it (with examples): 1. Start with your story. What’s pulling you away from your current path—and what’s pulling you forward? ✅ Example: “I’ve spent 6 years in education, but what I really loved was designing systems and learning tools. I’m now pivoting into UX design for edtech.” Make the shift clear and intentional. 2. Identify your transferable skills. You’ve built real value, name it. ✅ Example: Sales → Relationship-building, persuasion, handling objections Ops → Process design, cross-functional collaboration, execution List your strongest 4–6 skills and align them with your new target role. 3. Learn the language of the new industry. Every field has its own lingo. Start speaking it. ✅ Tip: Search 10 job listings in your target role. Write down the top 5 repeated words/phrases. Mirror those in your LinkedIn, resume, and pitch. 4. Rewrite your resume to match the direction, not the past. Lead with relevance, not chronology. ✅ Example: Add a “Career Summary” section: “Operations leader transitioning into product management, with 7+ years leading cross-functional teams, driving process improvements, and delivering results.” 5. Build proof fast. Don’t wait to get hired to show your skills. ✅ Options: Freelance Volunteer Build your own project Take a short course and create a case study Demonstrate that you’re not just interested, but also taking action. 6. Apply smart, not just often. Instead of applying everywhere, focus on quality roles in flexible environments. ✅ Pro tip: Use DailyRemote to find legit, remote-friendly roles across industries. It’s especially helpful for career changers who want fresh opportunities and a bit more breathing room. 7. Network with purpose. Start with conversations, not asks. ✅ DM example: “Hi Alex, I saw your post about transitioning into UX. I’m making a similar shift from content strategy. Would love to hear about your journey, no pressure at all.” Career changes take courage. But they’re absolutely possible. You’re not starting from scratch. You’re starting from experience. Now package it with purpose, and go get what’s next.