What Does a Scrum Master Do and How to Become a Successful at this Job?

Scrum is a framework for the development of complex projects as part of the Agile project management methodology. And Scrum Masters are an integral part of every Agile project management team. They facilitate the Scrum process for a development team and ensure they adhere to the Scrum framework and its principles. Their leadership, support, guidance, and coaching are central for improving the productivity and effectiveness of their team and organization. Let’s learn more about what does a Scrum Master do, and how to become one. 

Scrum Master Roles and Responsibilities

What does a Scrum Master do exactly? Scrum Masters serve the Scrum team, product owner, and the organization, helping them to self-organize and work towards a common goal. They also work to remove any obstacles that may impede the team’s progress, thus increasing productivity and effectiveness. Here is a list of their roles and responsibilities:

• Ensuring the team adheres to Scrum rules and practices
• Facilitating and conducting meetings with the team 
• Removing obstacles that may impede the team’s progress
• Ensuring the team’s productivity and motivation 
• Protecting the team from outside interruptions and distractions
• Helping the team focus on their goals 
• Mentoring the team on roles and responsibilities 
• Facilitating communication 

Scrum Master Skills

• Expertise in Scrum framework and its principles
• Experience with Agile methodologies and practices
• Leadership skills and coaching abilities 
• Knowledge of software development and business analysis 
• Strong communication skills 
• Conflict navigation skills
• Problem-solving and analytical skills 
• Flexibility and adaptability 
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Knowledge of project management  

How to Become a Scrum Master

Step 1: Obtain Certified Scrum Master Certification (CSM)

CSM certification is globally recognized; it can enhance your skills and knowledge of the Scrum framework and boost your career opportunities. 

Step 2: Gain the Experience and Skills Needed

Gaining hands-on experience by interning and working in similar roles will enhance your knowledge and skills to become a pro Scrum Master.

Step 3: Consider Online Courses

For professionals looking to advance their careers, Scrum Master online courses can help you obtain the credentials and skills needed.

Step 4: Connect With Others in the Industry

Connecting with others in the field can allow you to resolve queries and seek advice and feedback.

Step 5: Ask for Someone to Mentor You

Look for a mentor who helps you hone your knowledge and expertise in the field.

Step 6: Apply for Entry-Level Jobs

Apply for entry-level jobs in the related field to build your experience and profile.

ALSO READ: How to Become a Scrum Master and Lead Successful Teams

Why Become a Scrum Master

Scrum Master Salary and Job Outlook

Scrum Master is a highly lucrative career opportunity. According to Glassdoor, this role is one of the top 50 jobs in the United States, with an average annual salary of $104,283 and a job satisfaction rating of 4.1 out of 5. 

Educational Requirements

Many companies look for professionals with a background in business, IT, psychology, or related fields. Additionally, excellent technical and soft skills and a passion for Agile open doors to highly lucrative career opportunities in the field. 

Scrum Certification

A certified Scrum Master can enjoy a rewarding career of growth and opportunity. Earning a specific certification sets you apart from the competition and provides expertise in Agile methodologies. If you want to enhance your technical and soft skills, check out these project management courses offered by Emeritus. 

Scrum Master Vs. Project Manager

Scrum Master and project manager roles are both involved in the management of a project; nevertheless, they have different responsibilities and focus. A person in this role facilitates the Scrum process for a development team, ensuring that the team is productive and fully functional. Additionally, they serve as a coach for the team, helping team members to enhance their cross-functionality and self-management. On the other hand, project managers are responsible for the overall planning, monitoring, and execution of a project. They are responsible for ensuring the project meets the client’s requirements and is completed on time and within budget. 

Now that we have covered what does a Scrum Master do and how to become one, let’s take a look at the qualities and pitfalls for this role.

Best Qualities to Become a Successful Scrum Master

• Sharp attention to detail for implementing agile development methods
• Ability to influence and motivate others
• Effective communication skills
• Analytical and problem-solving abilities   
• Excellent organizational and time management skills 
• Empathy to understand the team members  
• Encouraging towards the team to take ownership 

Common Pitfalls of the Scrum Master

• Inability to enforce the rules of Scrum   
• Not coaching the Scrum team effectively 
• Lapses in facilitating meetings effectively to keep the team on track
• Over-mediating between developers and product owners, which can lead to delays in the development process     
• Unable to protect the team from outside interruptions and distractions   
• Lack of ability to handle conflicts

ALSO READ: What is a Good Scrum Master Salary Package and How to Get it

To become how you can become a successful Scrum Master, work towards making your dreams a reality. One way to do that is to sign up for the online project management courses on Emeritus to build the skills required. 

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