Project management is one of those things that seem all encompassing. You are here, there and everywhere. It can be difficult to manage a project and make sure that your core daily tasks are completed. Let’s face it; the world of project management is stressful. Deadlines, meeting and overseeing a project in its entirety can be complicated. But, it doesn’t have to be this way. As a project manager, you are the go-to person for all of the projects queries and demands. In light of this, there are some things that you need to know.
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Learn How to Communicate
As a project manager, you need to be able to communicate with everyone. From admin to shareholders, you need to ensure that you are on a level playing field. The art of communication doesn’t have to be dead. You need to make sure that you are comfortable with everyone on all levels. One of your core top tier skills is to manage people as well as projects. Engage with people. That way, you’ll get the job done.
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Public Speaking
Okay, so you haven’t got to take to the stand in Hyde Park. But, being able to speak publicly is imperative. Meetings are the name of the game as a project manager. With this, you need to ensure that you can put the project together and efficiently present what is going to happen and why. Everyone within a company will be affected by a project. So, you need to make sure that you are presenting the outcomes, KPIs and goals of the company with ease.
- Keep Your Files Close
Documentation and templates are the lifeblood of any good project manager. But, remember, these are guides. They are not hard and fast rules. You need to make sure that you are not entirely process driven. Creativity can be an excellent attribute. Ensure that you are roadmapping your project. But, make sure that you can pick up the pieces if this goes off plan. The best plans are left unmade as they say. If you live and die by your road map, you won’t be able to cope if something goes off kilter.
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Invest in the Right Tools
Your schedule is tight. You have a lot to do. You probably have an admin to help you. But, do you have the right tools for the job? Project management software can help you budget, strategically plan and see the outcomes of the project status. Reports are imperative along the life cycle of a project. Make sure that you are on the ball and invest in the right tools.
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Know the Right People
Some people will be working on the project. Others won’t. But, you don’t have to ignore those that are working within business as usual. You need to ensure that you are tapping into a wide range of networks within the company. You need to make sure that you are getting the right people on side. After all, they may be BAU, but they can be a valuable resource in your working arsenal. What’s more, nurturing these relationships ensures that you get the project completed on time, within budget.
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