PMP Generation : Audrey Sirois MSc, PMP, Digital Communications Advisor at Hydro Québec

As a project management professional, what keeps you awake at night?

Not having a plan. It gives me nightmares. ;)

What would you like to see happen in the project management industry in 2019? What is your dream for project management in 2019?

There are two things that I would like to see in the industry:

1. The first is for project management to expand its horizons toward fields other than construction (engineering) and information technology (IT), two sectors that are often at the forefront of project management. For example, my field of expertise—communications and marketing—is a different world and I feel that it is not sufficiently represented in publications and conferences, yet the field of communications has its share of challenges and specific characteristics.
2. The human dimension is a key factor in a project’s success. We do often talk about the importance of emotional intelligence and I think that it really is an essential quality for a good project manager. In my opinion, we should place greater value on these skills. After all, we all have to communicate!

What led you to pursue a career in project management?

After my Master’s, my then future employer told me that a project management position was available, believing that my background would be well suited to the job. A few other positions were open, but I took the advice and dove into the adventure without really knowing where it might lead. Shortly after, I realized that project management had always been an integral part of my life without me really noticing. My father has always been a great inspiration for me and knowing that I was starting a career in the same field pushed me to take a greater interest.

Now, six years into my budding career, I’ve had my PMP certification for almost three years and I am still learning and pursuing training in the field. Thanks to my father and a recommendation from my former employer (who is a PMP, RMP and PBA), I discovered this profession and can now say that I feel I am where I belong.

What is your most memorable recollection regarding PMI-Montréal?

My most memorable experience was probably the first time I had the opportunity to volunteer at a symposium. This event had a positive impact on me, mostly because of the employees and other volunteers at PMI who inspired me with their passion and who were always ready to work on project management.

After five years of volunteering at PMI-Montréal, I am still accumulating unforgettable memories, learning about our field of expertise and opening my horizons.

Do you have a personal thought you would like to share with the industry (an observation, a piece of advice, an open question, a reference, etc.)?

My personal method of explaining project management can be summed up in four points: teamwork, communication, humility and fun.

Without these elements, it is more difficult to work toward a common goal. Considering others is essential and we should always remember that if we want to hit our target. As Henry Ford said, “Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.”

Communication and commitment are indispensable. For example, if players on a sports team miscommunicate and lack commitment, whether it be in hockey, football or soccer (World Cup!), they will never make it to finals.

It is the same for us in project management. If I don’t know what the other person is thinking, I won’t be able to help us achieve that goal together. Sometimes it is up to us to initiate these discussions between our team members and to encourage commitment.

Managing certain projects can also be a great lesson in humility. You have to acknowledge right away that you don’t and can’t know everything. You can’t hesitate to get help, ask questions and learn. That’s exactly what is so exciting about project management.

Lastly, my approach is to have fun in what we do. It applies to project management but also, ultimately, to everything in life. You have to be good to yourself and feel you belong. This usually has a positive influence on the people around us, especially in relation to projects.

I learn daily about myself and others. You have to be open to feedback and discussions.

Why did you become a member of PMI-Montréal ?

Initially, I became a member of the Montreal chapter to meet other project management enthusiasts like myself, discuss the profession and make new contacts. These exchanges allow me to advance in my field.

There are communities of practice, mornings, PMI cocktail events, mentoring,  etc. but mostly because of passionate and involved people. I continue to be involved as a volunteer year after year because I continue to learn, discover inspiring projects and managers.

I love this profession fundamentally and I hope it can shine and especially that it continues to be recognized for the value it brings. 

Be the next member of the PMP Generation ! Answer the questions here : https://goo.gl/forms/P31tZ4yHfnIeSMgI3