subject: Getting Unstuck For Project Managers [print this page] Getting Unstuck For Project Managers Getting Unstuck For Project Managers
Then it can be all over the place. Most project managers deal with the IT department and there are well known issues around the need for good people skills in this area. Great project managers are also great people managers because that is how they actually get the work done. When we consider that only one out of eight projects are successful and one third are cancelled before they are finished we see that there is a lot of room for improvement. I would like to talk in this article about the people and communication side of the issue.
Good project managers have taken the time to get to know themselves well. They are aware of their assumptions and beliefs about people and how to do business. If you have not done this for yourself I suggest you get a good coach and begin working on this right away. Just improving in this area will make a ton of difference in your productivity and effectiveness.
Good project managers are able to establish rapport and build a trusting environment very quickly. They are adept at reading other people and getting on the same wave length with them and then at maintaining that connection. Even when negotiations are taking place or conflict is occurring they are able to stay in rapport and that helps create positive endings.
Good project managers are great at communication. They understand that behind every action is a positive intent of some kind and they seek that out. They are able to connect quickly and to stay "in the other person's language" so that understanding and useful exchange takes place effortlessly. They also get that people are doing the best that they can at the time with the resources they have and that gives them great insight into how to move forward.
Another thing good project managers can do is to set clear compelling goals that draw people forward into meaningful action.Their ability to motivate through tangible, realistic goals helps people take ownership and assume responsibility and accountability for their share of the project and the project as a whole. This is huge in delivering a well-executed project.
Where are your skills in these areas? Is it time to get yourself a coach to help you develop the people skills you need to make a difference in your productivity, effectiveness and efficiency? What are you waiting for? It is your career!
Contact me at lynn@discoverypointcoaching.com right now to get individual or group coaching on project management excellence.
Lynn Banis PhD, MCC is known as America's High Performance Coach. She specializes in helping women. executives and entrepreneurs make the most of their opportunities and potential. Her years of working with small and large businesses has given her a depth of knowledge that is invaluable to her clients. You can reach her at http://www.discoverypointcoaching.com or at her email address listed on the site. Also check out Lynn's other businesses: Coach Academy Texas, a cutting edge coach training company; and Turnkey Coaching Solutions, a coaching program management and contract coach staffing company.
