I’m about to submit my application for the pmp certification, but I’m terrified of being audited. I’ve worked on dozens of small projects rather than one big one. Does PMI prefer long-term projects, or is a collection of shorter engagements acceptable as long as the hours add up?
3 answers
The audit process is mostly random, so don't take it personally if it happens! Regarding your experience, the pmp certification application is perfectly fine with multiple small projects. The key is how you describe them. Avoid "technical" jargon and focus on "Project Management" tasks—initiating, planning, executing, monitoring, and closing. For example, instead of saying "I wrote code," say "I led the development phase and managed resource allocation." As long as you have a contact person who can verify your role for each project, you have nothing to worry about. Just be honest and clear.
Did you know you can't count overlapping projects for double the hours?
I got audited last year! It was stressful but actually quite fast. I just had my former managers sign the forms and I was approved in 3 days.
That’s a relief to hear, Ryan. It sounds like as long as you’re organized, the audit isn't the nightmare people make it out to be.
Yes, I made sure of that! I’m only counting unique months of experience to meet the 36-month requirement for the pmp certification. It’s tricky to calculate, but I used a spreadsheet to be sure.