Do you ever find yourself buried under heaps of project tasks, longing for a moment of respite but fearing the consequences of letting even a single ball drop? I and many other project professionals know the feeling all too well. That’s why I embarked on a journey to uncover unconventional yet effective strategies to manage my workload and optimise my productivity. After reading the popular book by Timothy Feriss the “4-Hour Workweek”. I was certain that many of its core principles could be applied to the way I worked as a project manager. I have been using these methods for over 18-months and my life has been transformed. The principles from “The 4-Hour Workweek” when adapted to align to the work of the project manager, can help you become more effective in your role. And to further support your journey, download my self-assessment quiz to pinpoint your personal improvement areas and focus your efforts: Here’s my approach to how these principles look when applied to project management: 1. The New Rich Mindset: As a project manager, it’s essential to prioritize efficiency and effectiveness. Focus on achieving project goals with the least amount of wasted time and resources, and encourage your…
Article By Tammy Watchorn, Author of the Change Ninja book series and the 4 Day Ninja Challenge I was this years old when I realised something about transformation. More importantly why we might be getting it wrong. A few conversations that I’ve had recently were ‘aha’ moments. But first: Imagine a bridge that is crumbling…. you can spend money trying to fix it over and over or you could spend just enough money to keep it safe while you build a better and newer bridge. What do you do? Now imagine you are stuck in a traffic jam. You rant and rave, getting impatient to get where you are going. You shout what is causing this horrendous traffic. How often do you stop and think, ‘oh, it’s me, I’m part of the problem’? I worked, and work with the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) a lot. I still believe in the purpose of an NHS – universal healthcare free at the point of use. A health care system for all, from cradle to grave. But I don’t believe that the system it is run by is working anymore. It hasn’t for a while. It’s an 80 year old system designed…
Dear Fellow Project Professional, In the dynamic realm of project management, failures are an inevitable reality. Projects will falter, timelines may derail, and objectives might remain unmet. Such instances can be profoundly disappointing, testing the mettle of even the most seasoned professionals. However, it’s crucial to recognize that it’s not the failure itself but rather our response to it that defines our trajectory as project managers. Your ability, professionalism, and approach to failure will invariably shape how it is perceived within your professional sphere. The manner in which you navigate setbacks can oftentimes be the differentiating factor between mediocrity and greatness. Allow me to explain further. In the face of failure, your conduct speaks volumes about your character and competence. Do you succumb to despair, or do you rise resiliently, ready to glean insights and learning from the experience? The way you handle failure not only reflects your individual ethos but also influences how your peers, superiors, and stakeholders perceive your capabilities. I want you to consider this: failures, when managed adeptly, have the potential to catalyze your greatest project successes. It’s during moments of adversity that innovation flourishes, and resilience is tested and fortified. By embracing failure as an…
Gantt charts, are a simple yet powerful visualization tool for project practitioners. They have been a staple of project management for decades. Despite their age, they remain an essential tool for planning, tracking, and managing projects. This article will explore how Gantt charts can be used to revolutionize project management efficiency, discuss modern innovations in Gantt chart software, and provide practical tips for effective implementation. As a project professional understanding how this tool can support your project delivery is a must-have skill. If you are new to the profession spend time getting to know the core fundamentals of how Gantt charts help you to look into the future of your project. Mastering these key concepts will provide you with the foundations that you can then build on. Allowing you to truly leverage the power of the Gantt chart in manipulating project parameters and opening options for better and more efficient and effective delivery of your project and its resources. The Enduring Value of Gantt Charts Gantt charts’ enduring appeal lies in their ability to provide a clear and concise overview of a project’s timeline. By visually representing tasks, dependencies, and deadlines, Gantt charts help project teams: Modern Innovations in Gantt Chart…
Welcome to today’s PMCW newsletter, I hope you have had an incredible week growing your PM capabilities. If you are new to PMCW content, my aim is to give the critical information to help you develop in your PM career and make the right choices to accelerate your learning, and achieve your career goals in the quickest time possible. In the following article I am going to share with you the key insights to help you choose between the top level PM qualifications; PMI, APM Chartership and PM Masters Level Degree. For those at the early career stage, I have also included a bonus review of the foundational qualifications that will set you up for success later in your career. Click HERE: To download a Free PDF Ebook : Ultimate Guide to PM Qualifications Introducing the Ultimate Guide to Project Management Qualifications in 2023 Whether you’re a newcomer to the project management field or already possess some experience, acquiring project management qualifications can be a game-changer for your career. These credentials can help you break into the industry or propel you to the next level. However, with the multitude of project management certifications and qualifications available in today’s market, it’s…
Freelance project management offers a unique blend of autonomy, flexibility, and the potential for higher earnings. However, it’s not without its challenges. This article explores the benefits and drawbacks of this career path, focusing on the UK and US markets. As well as the opportunities in the new and emerging global markets of the Middle East, Asia and Australasia. The Appeal of Freelance Project Management The Challenges of Freelance Project Management Key Differences Between Freelance and Employed Project Management Navigating the Market: Tips for Success Transitioning to Freelance Project Management The transition to freelance project management can be challenging, but with careful planning and preparation, it’s achievable. Consider the following: Future Outlook The freelance project management market has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by factors such as technological advancements, globalization, and a desire for flexible work arrangements. While the market can be volatile, the overall trend is positive, with increasing opportunities for independent professionals. By understanding the benefits, challenges, and strategies involved in freelance project management, you can make an informed decision about whether this career path is right for you. With careful planning, dedication, and a strong network, you can build a successful and fulfilling career as…
In the constantly evolving landscape of project management, the establishment, and efficient operation of a Project Management Office (PMO) can be a game-changer. As project leaders, understanding the essential skills required to manage a PMO is crucial for ensuring its effectiveness and contributing to overall project success. In today’s newsletter, we will explore the key elements to get to grips with when it comes to PMO management. Understanding the PMO role, ‘leading for success’ and answering the question of ‘What makes a good PMO’? Understanding the Role of a Project Management Office (PMO): A Project Management Office (PMO) is a centralized operation within an organization that oversees standardization of project management practices. It serves as a strategic enabler, providing a framework, core processes, and support for effective project delivery. The need for a PMO arises from the increasing complexity of projects and the desire for consistent project outcomes aligned with organizational goals. A well-structured PMO offers a range of benefits, including improved project coordination, enhanced resource utilization, and better risk management. It acts as a catalyst for organizational change by promoting best practices, fostering collaboration, and aligning projects with the overarching business strategy. The significance of a PMO in supporting…
Project controls, a critical component of project and program management, are the mechanisms used to monitor and measure project performance against established objectives. They provide essential insights into project progress, identify potential risks, and enable proactive decision-making. The Importance of Project Controls According to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide), project controls are essential for several reasons: The Role of Project Controls in Project and Program Management Project controls encompass a wide range of activities, including: Becoming a Project Controls Expert To specialize in project controls, professionals need a strong foundation in project management principles and a deep understanding of specific project controls techniques. Here are some steps to consider: Project Controls in the Age of AI and Digital Technology The advent of AI and digital technologies is transforming the project controls landscape. Tools like predictive analytics, machine learning, and automation are being used to: Challenges and Opportunities While project controls offer significant benefits, they also present challenges: Despite these challenges, the opportunities for project controls professionals are significant. As organizations increasingly recognize the value of effective project management, the demand for skilled project controls experts is likely to grow. Tips for Developing Your Career in Project Controls…
In a recent PMG interview, industry thought leader Mike Clayton made a profound observation: many project failures stem from the inability of project managers to speak up when their projects veer off course. The significance of this statement cannot be overstated. In an era where project complexity and stakes are constantly rising, project managers must become more willing and capable of “speaking truth to power.” Why is Speaking Up So Important? Tools and Techniques for Speaking Up Effectively By developing strong communication skills, building relationships, using data effectively, choosing your battles wisely, practicing assertiveness, and seeking support, project managers can become more confident and effective advocates for their projects. And by speaking up when necessary, project managers can help to prevent project failures, build trust with stakeholders, and demonstrate their leadership abilities. Get more comfortable developing your voice, work on becoming more assertive and lean into your role as a communicator. As a project manager you play a pivotal role in ensuring project success. By being willing to speak truth to power you not only define your own level professionalism and expertise; it’s a responsibility that can make a significant difference success and failure of your project. So step up,…
Today, we’re delving into a topic that’s crucial for anyone looking to excel in their project management career: finding a mentor. The journey to becoming a successful project manager is often filled with challenges and uncertainties, but a mentor can be your key to achieving your career aspirations far more efficiently than you would on your own. Helping you navigate the path to success and avoid some of the career pitfalls along the way. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of having mentors throughout your career, how they can support your development and help you to strategize and optimize your field opportunities. Choosing the right mentor will support in building your confidence and appetite to take on challenges. Develop your resilience and how you respond to setbacks. I have provided a list of the things to consider when choosing the right mentor for different stages in your professional journey. And finally, I have created a downloadable plan for the conversations with your mentor to maximize the valuable time that you have together. Download: Two Free Meeting Templates for Mentoring PMs So let’s get started! The Importance of Having Mentors Throughout Your Career: Mentors play a pivotal role in career…
