September 15, 2015 | Author: PM Hut | Filed under: Project Management Best Practices
Do You Have What It Takes To Become A Project Manager?
By Helen Sabell
Do you ever wonder if project management is the right career choice for you? Every project is different and multifaceted. Each project requires an effective plan and an organized approach that can be highly rewarding but also extremely demanding for those involved. It is hard to determine exactly what personality will best fit into project management as it depends on numerous factors. For instance, the type and scale of the project and the experience of the project team you will be required to manage.
Project management certifications have emerged substantially in recent years, such as a Diploma of Project Management to even being able to learn project management online. These courses appeal to project managers looking to expand their skill set and for those looking to start a career in project management. If you are trying to decide if a project manager position is for you, consider these requirements to assist with your career choice.
Fast paced environment
Project management is a fast paced environment often filled with conflicting deadlines and priorities that often do not allow for much else space. For some, it may be very hard to keep up with the demands of this job as it is continually moving and very unpredictable. Many obstacles will arise and as soon as they can be averted usually more will appear. That being said, if you are not easily flustered and thrive off of this type of environment then project management is very rewarding especially by overcoming constant challenges on a day to day basis.
Teamwork
Projects are about people and teams, so a good project manager tends to be extroverted. Managing a project is to have almost all responsibility. Being a natural leader, team player and a firm decision maker will help you to succeed. Ensure you are in control at all times and sufficiently engage with the people responsible for the work.
Data handling
Projects are best managed using measurable facts that can be tested and verified. Decisions are most often based on logical objective analysis or on feelings and values. Projects, especially technical projects will proceed more smoothly when decisions are consistent and accompanied with analytical data. You generally have a limited time, it is essential you prioritize to achieve tasks on time and remaining within the allocated budget. Project managers often have many projects to manage at the same time, not just one.
Optimistic
Great project managers must always remain upbeat and optimistic, even if things are not going quite to plan. You need to motivate your team and assure they complete the task to the best of their abilities. You also need to gain trust and be liked by your clients, colleagues and upper management. It is important to successfully retain the confidence of your clients especially in time of trouble, this requires communicating credible strategies for recovery and progression. Effective project managers meet challenges with the assumption there is always a solution. Step back and see the bigger picture, stay focused and do not lose sight. Remember, a positive attitude is contagious.
Organization
One of the factors most aligned with project management is how individuals can successfully conduct their tasks. You must be capable of planning and organizing what has to be done, after all this is what project management is mostly about. Good project managers are also highly detail orientated, although also pragmatic, there needs to be a good balance that the project is good enough than it is about striving for perfection. This all related to delivering the correct and expected business values, ensure you understand the scope, time and cost whilst delivering the expected value of the project to the intended client.
Small vs. large projects
For small, technical projects the project manager needs to be a highly technical subject matter expert, however, this becomes much less important as the work continues to grow. For larger, bigger projects project managers need to ensure they are knowledgeable on technical details but can ensure that communications are clear and can be followed successfully. Large projects need an effective leader who can motivate people and delegate the tasks opposed to understanding the little details.
Helen Sabell works for the College for Adult Learning, she is passionate about adult and lifelong learning. She has designed, developed and authored many workplace leadership and training programs, both in Australia and overseas. Helen also works with a select group of organizations consulting in People Management & Development, Education and Change.
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