Tuesday, August 07, 2007

Yes, I mean it

So, a few months ago I decided what my career path will be.  I’ve been busy looking for a new job ever since, as my current group does not have any opportunities for me.  The area is project management and my current group already has a “project manager.” At least that’s what he’s calling himself now…but that’s another story.
As I have decided what I want to do, I’ve been studying to figure out what I need to get to make myself “official.” Training, certifications, all that jazz.  I’ve signed up for several training courses and have been working on my paperwork for the PMP (Project Management Professional) certification. 
I’ve not been sitting still.
I purchased a study guide and a couple of reference books and I’ve been working through them in preparation for the test (mind you I’ve just started so it will be awhile before I actually take the test.)
I was walking to a different floor to study, but today I decided just to sit in one of the little meeting areas.  I didn’t feel like getting on the elevator. 
What an interesting experience that was!  Every team member that walked by had to stop and say something to me.  The best was when my “Team Lead” stopped by.  This is how it went:
TL(Team Lead): You look like you are studying!
Me: That’s because I AM studying
TL: Really?  What are you studying for?
Me: The PMP certification
TL: Really?  Huh, you are taking this new career thing seriously aren’t you?
Me (Thinking “Duh”): Well of course, it’s not like anyone else is going to do this for me.
TL (Noticing the book in front of me): Who paid for that book?
Me: I did.
TL: Wow, you really ARE serious about it!

It amazes me over and over again that these people think I was just changing my career path on a whim.  As though I just decided one day that I wanted to be a Project Manager so I thought I would try it out for bit and see what happened.  It will be gratifying when I’m hired into a project position and my career starts soaring because I’m so good at it!