Weekly PM Networking: Navigating a PM Job Search (DPMC)

The Denver Project Management Collaborative (DPMC) hosts this weekly, practitioner-led forum for project, program, and change professionals who want real conversations about real work.

Each week we focus on a specific topic shaping the project management profession—combining structured discussion, peer learning, and intentional networking.

January focus: Career & Capability
This Week’s Focus: Navigating an Effective Job Search as a Project Manager

Description
Job searching as an experienced project, program, or portfolio manager is fundamentally different than earlier in your career. Fewer roles. Higher expectations. Less tolerance for generic positioning.

This session is designed for experienced PMs who want to approach the job market strategically, intentionally, and with clarity.
We’ll explore:

• How senior PM roles are actually evaluated today
• Common mistakes experienced PMs make during job searches
• Positioning yourself as a business leader—not just a delivery expert
• Translating complex experience into clear, compelling narratives
• Managing longer search cycles, layoffs, and confidence dips professionally

This is not a sales pitch and not résumé-writing 101. It’s a grounded, peer-driven discussion focused on applicability, judgment, and professional growth.

What to Expect
• Structured introductions (no awkward open mingling)
• Small-group discussion with rotating prompts
• A practical takeaway you can use immediately
• A professional, welcoming environment for experienced PMs and leaders

Whether you’re actively job searching, securely employed, or simply staying sharp—this session is designed to be worth your time.

AGENDA
0–5 min | Welcome & Framing
• What DPMC is (and is not)
• Topic framing: why this matters now

5–15 min | Structured Introductions
This week’s introduction:
• Intro: Name, role, and reason for attending
• Question: What has been the most challenging part of your job search—or what concerns you most about starting one?

15–45 min | Facilitated Breakout Discussions
Prompts and discussion topics:

• How are senior PM roles being scoped and screened today?
• What experience is hardest to articulate at the senior level?
• IC vs. people leader roles: how do you decide which to pursue?
• What signals credibility and leadership beyond certifications?
• What has (or hasn’t) worked in recent interviews or searches?

Groups will rotate once midway to broaden perspectives.

45–55 min | Group Synthesis
• One insight per group
• Patterns you’re seeing across roles and industries

55–60 min | Close & Forward Signal
• Next week’s topic: IC vs. People Leader: Choosing the Right Path
• Upcoming relevant partner events
• Wrap up

60–90 min | Open / Networking
• Mingle and continue conversations
• Grab food or drinks from the food court

This event is part of a weekly series hosted by Denver Project Management Collaborative, with rotating topics focused on modern project leadership, delivery excellence, and career growth.