APM Mentor series
This Q&A is part of our APM Mentor series, where experienced professionals share their insights to help students and early-career project managers succeed.
In this edition, Alexander Bangert, Head of Programmes at Micro Nav Limited, offers practical advice and encouragement for those just starting out.
What’s one piece of advice you wish you’d received when you were starting out in your career?
The following isn’t strictly from my personal experience, but it’s advice I would give:
Don’t be afraid to ask for help or guidance. The vast majority of people will welcome your curiosity and desire to learn. Understand that you are at the start of your career—regardless of your academic achievements, there’s still much to learn from your own professional development and from the people you’ll work with, both inside and outside your organisation. Networking with, and learning from, people in upstream and downstream organisations in your supply chain will give you a different perspective and valuable insight into your role.
How can students make the most of networking opportunities while still studying?
I would strongly recommend joining your local APM branch and, if you can, participating in the local version of the APM Project Challenge. I’ve been involved in my local branch’s version for the last three years, and I think it’s an excellent opportunity for apprentices and people in full-time study. Don’t be intimidated by the organisational structure—senior people will welcome questions from enthusiastic and curious young professionals. They are, after all, the future of the business.
What’s a common mistake you see early-career professionals make, and how can students avoid it?
I haven’t seen a single common mistake—people are effective for a wide range of reasons. That said, while networking and self-promotion are important, performance is the very best way to be noticed and build a reputation. Respect the experience and expertise of others. They may not have your qualifications or life experience, but they may have a lot to teach you.
If no one in your organisation has the time to help or mentor you, move on—but make the most of your time while you’re there.
What skills or qualities do you think will be most valuable in the workplace over the next few years?
An understanding of the benefits and limitations of AI—particularly its data requirements—will be key. The ability to recognise data patterns that support the application of AI will also be important. Of course, the usual set of skills and competencies will still be critical. AI may be able to produce a schedule or analyse a document, but you will still be accountable for project outputs.
How can students build confidence in their abilities, especially when they’re just starting out?
I think this is largely a matter of personality and the support provided by others. Seek out people who are willing to help and support you, and don’t allow others to negatively influence you. Accept that you won’t succeed in everything, but always seek to learn when things don’t go your way.
In the words of a better man than me: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”
Final thoughts
Make the most of every opportunity, stay curious, and remember that everyone starts somewhere. Your willingness to learn and adapt will serve you well throughout your career.
