Why I Created a Project Management Compass

A reflection on the beginning of my career with Project Management and how people supported me in the way I want to support you with this Project Management Compass.

Hej! It’s William!

People sometimes ask why I started this newsletter called Project Management Compass (PMC), and every time I hear this question, it makes me pause…

The answer is not complicated, but it feels personal. For me, it goes back to when I was just beginning my career, full of hope, a little bit lost, and learning by trying things out.

My first steps into project management were not part of a big plan.

In Brazil, I was the person who fixed computers for friends and family. One day it was a broken printer, the next day a Windows update, or someone worried about losing their files.

I was learning how to work with people, keep calm under pressure, and bring order to a bit of chaos.

When I moved into real jobs, the pattern continued. At first, it was small tasks, then bigger challenges. Soon, I found myself responsible for things I had never done before.

No one ever gave me a clear manual. I had to figure out things as I went. That is when I learned that many project managers are thrown into the deep end.

One day, you are just doing your job. Next, someone expects you to manage a team, deliver results, and keep everyone happy. It can be a shock.

But… everything changed because of the people I had the chance to meet in my life.

I was lucky to have a turning point early on. I became a volunteer at PMI. I met people with years of experience, joined discussions I barely understood at first, and started learning in a way that felt different from books. I saw how real professionals lead projects, make decisions, and build trust with teams. It was one of the best learning experiences I’ve ever had. But not everyone gets that chance.

Many people don’t have the time to volunteer or the kind of job that supports it. And the truth is, most project managers are thrown into the job with little to no guidance.

One day they’re delivering tasks, and the next they’re expected to run a cross-functional project, manage timelines, coordinate people, and still deliver results, all without a proper introduction. I’ve seen that story repeat itself again and again.

So… That’s why I created Project Management Compass.

I wanted to create something for people in the middle of the action, those who need advice, perspective, and a place to learn without pressure or judgment. Connecting directly with you as these people in the beginning of my career connected with me.

PMC is a weekly letter for anyone trying to make project management work in real life.

One thing that helped me a lot was talking with other project managers, even if just for a short chat. You can learn more in a coffee conversation than in a long online article.

I always try to keep that spirit in PMC – a coffee talk.

If you are leading a project and feel like you are making it up as you go, you are not alone. I have felt that way too many times.

There is always so much to learn, isn’t?

Business Acumen

Benefits Management and Realization
Business Models and Structures
Competitive Analysis
Customer Relationships and Satisfaction
Industry Domain Knowledge
Legal and Regulatory Compliance
Market Awareness
Function-Specific Knowledge
Strategic Planning, Analysis, Alignment

Ways of Working

Agile and Hyper Agile
Hybrid
Design Thinking
Transformation
Data Gathering and Modeling
Earned Value Management
Governance
Performance Management
Requirements Management and Traceability
Risk Management
Schedule Management
Scope Management
Time, Budget, and Cost Estimation

Power Skills

Leadership
Active Listening
Communication
Adaptability
Brainstorming
Coaching and Mentoring
Conflict Management
Emotional Intelligence
Influencing
Interpersonal Skills
Negotiation
Problem Solving
Teamwork

Project Management Compass is my way of sharing what I learned, what I am still figuring out, and what can help others who are walking the same road.

This newsletter is my way of helping others find direction when things feel unclear and maybe save them from some of the mistakes I made along the way.

So, are you ready?

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