Hiring a Project Manager - What To Look For

Hiring a project manager is not a particularly daunting process, but there is much to do. The hiring of a project manager means looking at several different things, sometimes from different angles.

You need to know what to look for, not only in looking at the prospective person's temperament but also looking at their experience, how they handle certain situations, what their referees say about them, and how easy it is to confirm their references. We'll talk in more detail about what to look for when seeking a project manager.

The very first thing you want to notice is how they apply. Did they apply in the way how you asked them to apply, assuming you gave specific instructions? Was it timely?

Another thing to look for is their personality, as they will be dealing with a lot of the public, other business owners and employees.

More things to look for in a project manager is whether or not they have practical experience as well as education. Verify their references. How well can they manage stress and scheduling? Can they multi-task well?

In an interview I also pay attention to how they talk about previous employers or other people. I always ask the question “Why should I hire you?” A good answer to this question can set a person apart and can show you whether they think outside the box or not.

You should be able to get a feel for how well they look in advance, to offset unforeseen issues. Find out what their potential plans would be for meetings, what kind, with whom and how often. Are they familiar with management software and if so what kind and how familiar are they? Do they have examples of solutions that they have used in the past that have helped with certain circumstances? Throw out a couple of scenarios and ask them how they would respond.

The information you gather should be able to clearly show if your potential project manager can strategize - whether or not they have the ability to keep to schedules yet know when to cross the line of having to redo the schedule to accommodate everyday changes, both within the company and the market changes and technology. Communication and collaboration will be a major key player.

Be creative and tough in interviewing prospective managers as this is your company and it is your right to be able to make sure you have the best you can find. You must be able to trust the person you hire as they will be your right hand, if not also part of the left.