I previously completed PRINCE2, as it forms the foundation of my work. When I was given the opportunity to take a training course again, I started looking at where I wanted to develop further. IPMA appealed to me because of the great combination of hard and soft skills. I find it important to keep developing myself and not stand still.
Because I had previously taken a training course at Lagant, I had a pretty good idea of what to expect. What I find particularly strong is that you are taught by someone who has a lot of personal experience in the field. Of course, theoretical knowledge is important, but someone who can explain how things work from a practical perspective really adds value for me. You learn from situations that the person has personally experienced and the experiences associated with them.”
I have more theoretical knowledge to fall back on. Because of that, I can better explain why I approach something in a certain way.
More confidence in my own abilities
My biggest insight was actually the confirmation that I am in the right place. I really enjoy project management, and I notice that my qualities align well with what the profession demands. During the training, that feeling only grew stronger. I gained more insight into my own skills and the way I approach projects.
What I also found valuable is exchanging experiences with other project professionals. It allows you to take a fresh look at your own organization. We already do some things very well, but I also discovered that there is always room for improvement. During the training, models and working methods were presented that made me think: hey, we aren't actually using those at all in our daily work. Those might well be missed opportunities.
I notice that I propose such ideas more easily now, too. I have more theoretical knowledge to fall back on. As a result, I can better explain why I would approach something in a particular way. That also helps to get other people on board with your choices. I simply feel a bit more confident now. And I think that is perhaps one of the most important things the training has brought me.”
Theory that you immediately recognize in practice
What I really appreciated about the training was the connection between theory and practice. You receive quite a bit of course material and there are a huge number of models to get to know. Yet, it was always clearly explained how to apply that knowledge in practice. This was done using concrete examples, and there was plenty of room to discuss them with each other.
I already work in project management myself, often with experienced colleagues from whom I learn a great deal. As a result, I recognized a lot from practice during the training. I found the theoretical depth particularly valuable. I now have more background knowledge and can therefore better understand and substantiate why certain things in projects work the way they do.
The group also played an important role in this. We had a really nice dynamic, where everyone was given the space to share experiences and perspectives. As you get to know each other better, more trust develops and you feel more comfortable discussing things. As a result, you learn a lot from one another. You notice that everyone looks at project management from their own background, and that leads to interesting conversations.
Also the teaching style of Evelien Top She really appealed to me. Nice and no-nonsense, straight to the point, and with humor. She can speak from her own experience, and that makes the lessons lively. At the same time, she had a good sense of what the group needed. She regularly asked how we felt about things, what we needed, and what we wanted to focus on a bit more. And she actually did something with that afterwards. I found that very pleasant.
"Evelien Top She had a good sense of what the group needed. She regularly asked what we needed and acted on it.
Even the little things are well taken care of.
Another thing I really considered a plus was how well everything surrounding the training was organized. That might sound like a small thing, but I think it is important to be well taken care of during such an intensive training day. The lunch was tasty, healthy, and varied, and there was plenty of time to grab a coffee or take a break in between.
For me, that really contributes to how you experience such a day. They are long days in which you process a lot of information, so it is nice when there is also attention paid to relaxation. Evelien maintained a good balance in that regard. She sensed when it was time for a break and gave us the space to indicate what we needed. As a result, the atmosphere remained pleasant and you were able to stay focused.”
What also appeals to me about IPMA is that after D, you can progress to other certification levels.
Increasingly challenging projects
In the coming years, I primarily want to continue developing within project management. For me, that means taking on increasingly challenging projects with greater complexity and a bit more responsibility. I appreciate noticing that you can continue to grow in this field and that there are always new things to learn.
What also appeals to me about IPMA is that after D, you can progress to other certification levels. The training therefore does not stand alone. You can continue to deepen your knowledge and skills, both by taking new courses and by gaining practical experience.
For the time being, I primarily want to continue building my experience and take on increasing responsibility. I feel at home in this field and would like to continue growing within it. The IPMA training has only confirmed that feeling for me.
