I just finished my 35 contact hours through a PMP certification training course and I’m about to submit my application. I’m terrified of being audited. What are the most common reasons for an audit, and how should I phrase my project descriptions to avoid red flags? I want to make sure my experience is described in "PMI-speak" correctly.
3 answers
Audits are largely random, so don't take it personally if you are selected. To minimize risk, ensure your project descriptions focus on the "Managing" and "Leading" aspects rather than just technical tasks. Use terms like "Initiating," "Planning," and "Closing" throughout your summaries. Your PMP certification training should have provided a template for this. I made sure to contact my previous supervisors before submitting, so they were ready to sign off on my hours just in case. It usually takes about a week to clear if you have all your documents ready.
Are you planning to submit all your projects at once, or are you just focusing on the largest ones to meet the 36-month requirement?
Just be honest and clear. Use a professional tone and don't use internal company jargon that a PMI reviewer wouldn't understand.
Excellent advice, Pamela. Clear, jargon-free descriptions are exactly what the PMP certification training modules suggest for a smooth approval process without the headache of an audit.
I’m focusing on the three biggest projects I led. My PMP certification training coach said that over-complicating the application with ten small projects just increases the chance of a documentation error.