5 Red Flags to Watch for When Hiring a Contract Project Manager. Choosing the right contract project manager can make or break your project. With so many professionals available, it’s critical to know what to look for—and what to avoid. At True North PMP Consulting, we help clients make smart, informed decisions when outsourcing project management roles. Here are five warning signs that should raise a red flag during your selection process.
1. Vague or Overly Broad Experience
A strong project manager will have relevant, specific experience—not just a laundry list of industries or roles. Be wary of candidates who talk in generalities or can’t clearly explain their contributions to past projects. A solid PM should be able to connect their experience directly to the needs of your project.
2. Lack of Certifications or Continuous Learning
While certifications like PMP, PRINCE2, or Agile Scrum Master aren’t everything, they are important indicators of commitment to the profession. If a candidate hasn’t invested in formal training or ongoing education, that’s a sign they may not be up to date with best practices.
3. Poor Communication Skills
A contract PM needs to communicate clearly with multiple stakeholders. If the person can’t explain ideas concisely or listen effectively during the interview, chances are they’ll struggle under pressure. Strong project management requires strong communication.
4. No Clear Process or Methodology
When asked about how they manage scope, timelines, risk, or resources, your PM candidate should be able to articulate a clear approach. If they rely too heavily on buzzwords or can’t describe how they adapt their process to different projects, that’s a concern.
5. Bad Fit with Company Culture
Even if a PM is technically skilled, they won’t succeed if they can’t align with your team’s working style and values. Trust your instincts during the interview—if something feels off, it probably is.
5 Red Flags to Watch for When Hiring a Contract Project Manager. Choosing the wrong person can lead to delays, overspending, and team frustration. Protect your investment by watching for these signs—and making smart, strategic hiring decisions. If you’re unsure about how to evaluate or hire the right contract project manager for your organization, True North PMP Consulting is here to help. We offer expert guidance to ensure you bring the right leadership into your projects from day one. Reach out to us for a consultation—we’ll help you find a PM who fits your goals, culture, and budget. Connect with us here and on Facebook and LinkedIn.
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