So, you've finally landed a utility project management role. Now it's time to find ways to excel and stand out amongst your peers. The utilities sector offers tremendous opportunities for growth, leadership and career advancement for those willing to master the learning curve quickly. Read on for top tips to help accelerate your trajectory.
1.) Gain A Deeper Understanding of the Industry
One of the best ways to get ahead is to become intimately familiar with the details of the utilities sector. Move beyond a surface-level knowledge to grasp the deeper complexities of this field. Attend industry conferences, read trade journals, and connect with professionals on sites like LinkedIn.
The more context you have about utility operations, infrastructure, regulations, new technologies, etc., the better able you will be to understand your specific role. Subject matter expertise commands respect and enables you to engage more thoughtfully in discussions about projects and strategy.
Think of this as gaining the inside language, mindsets and practical wisdom that veterans of this industry possess from years in the trenches.
2.) Continue Your Education
The learning process never stops for ambitious project managers. Identify gaps in your skill sets and seek out resources to strengthen these areas. For example, online platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera and Udemy offer excellent self-guided courses covering utility project management best practices.
Tap into the wealth of knowledge outside your day-to-day work. Consider earning certificates and additional credentials such as PMP certification to validate your commitment to continuous improvement.
The more well-rounded your capabilities, the more opportunities you create.
3.) Mentorship Matters
Connecting with an experienced utility industry mentor can fast track your career success immensely. These professionals have navigated complex projects and overcome obstacles you may just be facing. Their seasoned advice can help you avoid common pitfalls that novice PM's often encounter.
Mentors can explain intricate processes that textbooks gloss over. Job shadowing programs also provide invaluable glimpses into the realities of leadership roles you aspire towards.
If your company lacks formal mentoring, seek it out independently through industry networking events or local PMI chapter meetings. Having a trusted expert in your corner provides assistance that your busy manager likely can't devote time towards.
4.) Ask Thoughtful Questions
Curiosity and inquisitiveness set standout employees apart. Don't be afraid to regularly ask intelligent questions to better comprehend workflows, decisions or requirements. It displays initiative and engagement with your work. Preparation is key however.
Reflect carefully on what you don't fully grasp before approaching others. Dig into issues yourself first and demonstrate critical thinking. Framing questions intelligently inspires confidence in your competence. It also uncovers insights that you won't get through quiet observation alone.
Peers notice those unafraid to speak up respectfully in order to push projects forward.
5.) Business Savvy
While mastering utility project management tools and technical aspects are vital, don't overlook the softer business skills that influence leadership potential. Build expertise in areas like relationship management, forecasting, financial analysis and communication.
Courses in business strategy, emotional intelligence, storytelling and other people-centered capabilities make one a well-rounded candidate for advancement. Consider rotational programs that offer cross-training in different departments or seek special assignments that stretch your experience. Making connections between PM and business outcomes will serve you well over time.
The success of utilities companies depends on having strong project leaders to deliver critical infrastructure and services. Position yourself to take on increased responsibilities by applying the tips outlined above.
Commit to promptly mastering industry knowledge, pursing continuing education, connecting with mentors, asking great questions and developing business acumen over the long-term. Keep learning, keep growing and keep making an impact.
The opportunities to elevate your career are unlimited for those with the drive to build expertise across all facets of this vital and fast-changing field.
Looking for Your Next PM Role?
Our team consists of industry heavyweights that bring substantial expertise to the table for our clients. And, we're always looking for great Project Managers to join our team. Contact us today to find out about our current openings.
by Aubre Williams, Deputy Program Manager, PFES
