One of the most common questions new and aspiring project managers ask is about tools. They see long lists of software names in job descriptions and on LinkedIn and are left wondering which tools they really need to learn. In this short Lounge Access session, Shoaib answers a viewer who feels overwhelmed by scattered information online and wants a clear, practical view of the tools that actually matter in day to day project work.
Shoaib explains that there is no single universal tool that every project manager in every company uses. Different organizations choose different systems for planning, tracking and collaboration, which means you might see Microsoft Project in one company, Jira in another and a completely different in house or SaaS tool somewhere else. Instead of chasing every possible tool, he highlights a few names that show up very often, such as Jira for agile and software teams, Microsoft Project for scheduling and resource planning, and Microsoft Visio for timelines and diagrams.
A useful tip Shoaib shares is about how these tools can act as keywords on your resume. If a recruiter or HR system scans for “Jira” or “MS Project” and you have genuinely used them and listed them, your profile has a better chance of getting shortlisted. At the same time, he warns viewers not to stress too much about tools alone, since companies are often willing to let you learn a new tool on the job if you already understand core project management concepts and can speak the project language confidently.
This video fits nicely within the broader Lounge Access idea of offering grounded, experience based answers to real project management career questions. Instead of giving a long generic list, Shoaib focuses on the tools that cut across many environments and on how to think about tools strategically, both for learning and for positioning your profile. If you have similar doubts about tools, certifications or your move into project management, Lounge Access gives you the option to speak directly with Shoaib and get advice shaped around your own situation.
