If you're a contract project manager looking for your next assignment, there are a number of things you may wish to highlight when seeking an employer.
Do you want to draw attention to your unique skill set? Or point out the fact you have a degree from one of the country's most respected institutions?
A recent study may indicate that your professional experience is actually your number one asset when looking for work, and has a greater influence than education on your employment prospects.
According to the Randstad Workmonitor's 2013 Labor Market Participation report, a staggering 85 per cent of Australian employees agree with the statement that "experience weighs harder than education in finding a suitable job". This certainly gives weight to the perception that, in recruitment nowadays, employers are putting greater focus on the real-world experience a candidate can boast.
So if you are an experienced project or change manager, what is the best way to leverage your experience?
One of the most effective tactics is to head to a project management network such as EDGE PLUS instead of relying on a traditional agency.
This is because EDGE PLUS is an exclusive network open to only the most experienced, senior-level project management professionals in the country. One need only look at the stringent entry requirements for members – a minimum of eight years' experience in their field of expertise, for instance – to see how distinguished those who join the network are.
By simply becoming a member of EDGE PLUS, you immediately set yourself apart from the pack and can brand yourself as someone with the experience required to successfully lead a project.
It's becoming clearer that traditional recruitment methods are waning too – the Randstad report found that fewer than one in five Australians would consider using a recruitment agency to find a job.
With a project management network, there is no need for an experienced project manager to rely on outdated job hunting tactics.