Why You Shouldn’t Become A Remote Project Manager. Unless…
It doesn't always happen like you think it will.
Now this is a controversial headline. Especially because here at The Effective Project Manager we teach you exactly why you should become a remote PM. And exactly how to become one.
But it isn’t right for everyone.
So let’s go through some reasons why you might not want to go remote. If these don’t apply to you, then absolutely pursue the remote dream.
You are brand new to project management
There is a definite advantage to learning face-to-face. It is definitely much easier to explain concepts to someone who is right beside you. Older professionals may also prefer the office as its a way of working to which they are accustomed. Linking up with a mentor may therefore be easier.
We encourage spending some time in the office when you are brand new. This doesn’t need to be years, or decades. And it doesn’t need to be 5 days per week. I would encourage you to learn the skills of remote project management even when working in the office. Practice them and then perfect them remotely later.
You struggle to be self motivated
This isn’t a disaster. All top performers are self-motivated, but if you are not you may benefit from being around other people who will push you. And do a certain amount of micro-managing of your time. This might be fine for a few years and you might initially enjoy it. Particularly if you are younger or have less responsibilities outside of work. But do try to find ways to be more motivated without external direction.
👋 If you do want to work remote (or simply work better in the office), these are my best resources to help you do exactly that. Each one is made specifically for project management professions and leaders.
How to Optimise Your LinkedIn Profile For Success - So you can land that dream role.
ChatGPT Prompts for Resume Creation - To help customise your resume for each application
Project Management Task Tracker (Google Sheets / Excel) - Super useful for working remote
3 Big Goals Daily Template (Printable) - My daily way to make sure I get my goals done
Project Folder Structure for Project Managers - A messy folder structure is a disaster
Ultimate Project Management Hub - The best Notion template for project management
You thrive off social interaction
Many people love the personal interaction of the office. They feel alone and isolated if they work remotely or from home.
This is understandable.
If this is you then maybe office-based work is better. But remember that remote work doesn’t need to be 100% from home. Many project managers prefer to work some days in the office. Either on a set schedule or as the need arises.
But one of the great advantages of remote work is that you have increased free time for social interests outside of work. Remote workers see their friends and family more and are able to attend social or sporting or cultural events.
There are options even if you love being around colleagues more often than most.
You struggle with work-life balance
It is easy for the remote project manager to work longer hours. Especially if they cant switch off. Learn to manage your time effectively so that you have the ultimate freedom. But if you struggle with compulsive work tendencies you may need to work through those before going remote. You won’t regret it.
Life on the other side of compulsive work is wonderful.
And very rewarding personally and professionally.
You are technologically challenged
Remote work requires more technology. And independent use of technology. You won’t have the support of the IT department or colleagues close at hand.
If you are uncomfortable with technology you might want to spend some time learning it in the office. Having experts close-by is a sure advantage.
However you will quickly become an expert yourself. Simply persist.
And once you know the basics you will be able to troubleshoot most future problems.
Conclusion
Becoming a remote project manager can be incredibly rewarding, offering flexibility, freedom, and the ability to design your own work-life balance. However, it’s not the ideal path for everyone. If you’re new to project management, struggle with self-motivation, thrive on daily social interaction, or find it hard to disconnect from work, you may need to address these challenges before diving into the remote world. That said, these obstacles aren’t insurmountable, and with the right approach, many professionals can transition to remote work successfully.
Ultimately, if the benefits of remote work resonate with you, it’s worth pursuing. But only if you’re prepared for the unique demands that come with it. Remote work is a skill in itself, one that, with practice, can lead to both personal and professional growth.
👋 If you are in need of more help or want one-on-one project management coaching, I’m currently taking on a few clients. You’re welcome to reach out anytime; just reply to this email or send me a DM.
Your title pulled me!! I am a remote PM. Perfect Sunday read.
I am “remote” when I go in the office anyway!