The key to standing out in a competitive project management market

Right now, the job market for project managers is in a strong position. Companies are hiring, and there are plenty of opportunities for skilled professionals. But here’s the catch: you’re not the only one who knows this.

With so many project managers vying for top roles, standing out in a crowded field is more important than ever. The challenge isn’t just about finding open positions — it’s about positioning yourself as the best candidate in a market where competition is fierce.

Why being good isn't good enough

In today’s thriving job market, project managers aren’t struggling to find opportunities — they’re struggling to stand out. While companies are hiring, they’re also being flooded with applications from candidates who have similar skills, qualifications and experience. So, how do you rise above the crowd?

It all comes down to one thing: positioning.

One of the senior change managers I worked with recently made an insightful comment. He said: “There’s always something happening in the job market — sometimes it’s in your favour, sometimes it’s not. But the real challenge is making sure you’re at the front of the line, no matter what the conditions are.”

In a market where everyone has the right qualifications and experience, being at the front of the queue is essential. It’s not about being the best on paper — it’s about being the first choice in the eyes of hiring managers.

The importance of positioning

Even in a thriving market, not every project manager will land the role they’re aiming for. Why? Because they haven’t positioned themselves correctly. You could be one of 200 candidates applying for the same job, but if you’re not visible and relevant to the hiring manager, you’ll get lost in the crowd.

The most successful job seekers don’t focus on simply meeting the job description — they focus on positioning themselves as the perfect fit for the specific needs of the hiring company. They understand that it’s not about throwing their CV at every opportunity, but about making sure they’re in the right place, at the right time, with the right message.

The challenge of competition

In a strong job market, competition is inevitable. When there are 75 roles available, but 200 project managers vying for them, the question isn’t whether there are jobs — it’s how to make sure you’re at the top of the list for the ones that matter.

Think about it this way: If you’re candidate number 100 in a pool of 200, your chances are slim. But if you position yourself in the top 5, you’re almost guaranteed to get noticed. The goal is to position yourself at the front of the line where you can get hired, rather than being another name in a crowded applicant pool.

The key to success: visibility and relevance

The project management roles are out there, but the key to securing them lies in visibility and relevance. When hiring managers are looking to fill a role, they’re not just looking for someone who checks all the boxes — they’re looking for someone who stands out as the best fit for their specific needs.

Here’s how you can ensure that you’re seen and heard in a competitive market:

Optimise your online presence: make sure your LinkedIn profile and other online platforms reflect the value you bring to the table. Hiring managers often search for candidates long before they post a job, so your profile should showcase the skills and achievements that are most relevant to the roles you want.
Tailor your messaging: don’t send out generic applications. Tailor your CV and cover letter to each role, focusing on how you can solve the specific problems the company is facing.
Build your network: use your professional network to access opportunities before they’re even posted. Most senior roles are filled through connections and referrals, so make sure you’re in the right circles.
Focus on results: when you present yourself to a potential employer, don’t just talk about what you’ve done — talk about the results you’ve delivered. Show how you’ve helped companies grow, cut costs, or manage risks and make it clear that you can do the same for them.

Final thoughts: it’s all about positioning

In today’s strong project management job market, opportunities are plentiful. But the candidates who land the best roles aren’t just good at what they do — they’re experts at positioning themselves as the first choice.

It’s not enough to rely on your experience or qualifications. To stand out in a competitive market, you need to focus on positioning, visibility and relevance. By doing so, you’ll ensure that you’re not just another candidate in the pile — you’re the candidate hiring managers are eager to meet.

So, the question isn’t, “Are there jobs available?” It’s “How are you positioning yourself to be at the front of the line?”