Each project manager handles things differently, but all project managers are the pivot upon which the entire project pivots. Therefore, the success of these projects depends on the manager’s ability to visualize, delegate, communicate, and more. The following five elements of good project management should be kept in mind by every manager.
Set and Manage Priorities
Every project will have some tasks that are more important than others. As time goes on, and as tasks are completed, priorities are likely to change as they are completed. As the pivot upon which the project is balanced, it is the project manager’s responsibility to set and manage those priorities in a manner that is effective and efficient. Basically, the project manager is the traffic director. He or she tells people when to stop, go, or take a detour.
Build Relationships
To make your projects run smoothly, you need people who will do things willingly – not just for a paycheck. When your team members know and respect you, they are more likely to cooperate for your project and company’s benefit.
Encourage Collaboration
Your resources may have individual tasks to complete in order to contribute to the project’s success, but you should always encourage them to collaborate across tasks. As a result, your team is almost always stronger than its parts when you can do this. When team members share ideas, concerns, and assets, they are almost always more efficient than when they remain focused on their own tasks.
Listen
Listening skills are crucial to your success as a project manager. It is certainly true when you meet with a client and listen to his or her needs and wants for the completed project, since ensuring that the client is satisfied is absolutely essential. Listening skills are also important when dealing with your team.
Understand and Convey the Vision
As the project manager, it is also up to you to ensure that each member of your team understands the scope of the project and what the client expects. This helps your team see the client’s vision and not only their own roles in achieving it. When people can see the big picture, it changes the way they focus and think about what they need to make sure the vision is realized each and every step of the way.
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