Advice for studying/being a Project Manager

[NickH]

Good morning everyone,

I have read up on several threads from around the forum & other websites, but I'm also hoping to get some friendly advice here to!

I'm 20, currently in an Apprentice position with the Council and I have been reading up on PM roles and it's something I am very interested in. Obviously this is not something I want to rush, but nonetheless I want to study and get this under my belt ASAP. I have seen that people have recommended doing reading and study before the course. I am a complete newbie when it comes to PM, so how much reading/studying would you think is necessary, and also is there any recommendation on courses or specific training books/websites I could use before I attempted to course? Or could I just wing it now and have all the adequate training on the 5 day course?

Initially after research I have seen it would be a good idea to go for the PRINCE2 Foundation & Practitioner course and exam somewhere (please correct me if I am wrong!). The prices do range a lot and I was wondering what exactly is the difference? Also if you could give me any recommendation when it comes to learning providers that would be great.

I am by no means asking for a full essay for what you think best suits me, but the Internet is a large place and any input would be greatly appreciated as part of my research.

Thanks for your time!

-Nick

[kwalford]

Hi Nick,

It would be advised to read the How to become a project manager sticky thread at the top of this forum.

Prince2, QA are a very good provider and I personally used them. I would also recommend Dave Littens Prince2 Primer videos for pre-study before taking a classroom course. I would say to go on a classroom course to take the exams, as distant learning misses out on the benefits of group engagement.

For PM books, I recommend the below two:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Project-Managem ... 0470851244

http://www.projectsmart.co.uk/forums/vi ... f=8&t=1807

Good luck,
Kit