I have several core Missions that define my life— Everything I do is aligned around them. In today’s article I want to explore with you how you can create and clearly define missions that can drive success in the most critical areas of your life. Whilst this subject area is not confined to practitioners of projects, it is a concept that we will easily recognise from the projects and initiatives that we deliver. In fact I would challenge you to find a successful project that does not have a clear mission at its core. So why not take this approach and apply it to our own lives. Missions serve as a True North for life. As we navigate the hectic and unrelenting world that we are operating in, it’s easy to get lost in the shuffle. The constant barrage of opportunities, people, and demands can leave us feeling overwhelmed and directionless. However, there’s a powerful tool that can help you regain control and find true fulfillment: missions. What Are Missions? Missions are not goals; they’re instead infinite journeys. They’re the guiding stars that illuminate our path, providing a sense of both purpose and direction. Unlike goals, which have a defined…
As organizations evolve and projects become increasingly complex, the demand for skilled program managers has surged. If you find yourself gearing up for a program management interview, it’s essential to understand the distinct requirements that set this role apart from a standard project manager’s position. In today’s article, we’ll explore the key considerations when preparing for a program management interview, including decoding the role description, adapting your language, and aligning your experience with the unique demands of program management. Drafting an appealing program management resume is the first challenge that many who are new to the program manager role need to overcome. I have created a simple matrix that can transform your resume, and ensure that your program management credentials shine through. Download it for free here. And let it guide you to taking the first steps to securing the program management role that you aspire to. Use this simple framework for writing your next PM resume. By articulating your program management actions in this simple formula you can turn your daily actions into superhuman, program management, feats of excellence. Verb + Action + Context + Observable Result And by using these ‘Killer’ PM phrases you’ll transition from project to…
Plus the Number One Mistake that result in great PMs Failing Even the most experienced project managers can stumble, when delivering projects. Especially when those projects are complex, part of a larger program or portfolio. Or being undertaken in a high-pressure, high-stakes arena. And where commercials and reputations on the line. What separates the exceptional from the ordinary in the market of project talent, is the ability to learn rapidly from mistakes and implement effective corrective actions. This article lists the ten common pitfalls and offers practical strategies to prevent them from derailing your next project. And keep reading to the end as our final pitiful is the one most likely to threaten seasoned as well as novice practitioners. Mistake 1: Underestimating the Power of Communication Effective communication is the core of successful project management. Yet, it’s surprising how often it’s overlooked. Misunderstandings, delays, and conflicts often stem from poor communication. Mistake 2: Scope Creep: The Uncontrolled Expansion Scope creep is a persistent challenge that can derail even the best-laid plans. Unmanaged, it leads to budget overruns, missed deadlines, and dissatisfied stakeholders. Mistake 3: Ignoring the Importance of Risk Management Every project carries inherent risks. Failing to identify, assess, and…
In this edition, we do a deep-dive into the four types of projects that you need to nail your next promotion. These projects are crucial for your development and to ensure progress on your career path. By mastering each of these types of project, not only will you expand your expertise but you will also elevate your profile and set yourself apart from others in your field. Let’s jump in and look at each type of project on our list in detail: 1. Technical Complexity: Technical complexity involves projects with intricate systems, standards, processes, or technologies. They may be operating in uncertain environments or reliant on novel or unproven technologies. Or simply operating with no clearly defined outcome. The following models provide some insight into how levels of complexity from various contexts have been codified. VUCA – volatile, uncertain, complex, ambiguous. The VUCA framework is mainly aimed at addressing challenges in the corporate environment. Cynefin – a notion that everyone carries connections to the world (tribalistic, religious, geographical, political, emotional, etc.) that aren’t immediately evident, until we observe ourselves from a grounded position. VPEC-T or VIPER – The premise of this model is that friction in enterprise architecture (EA) often…
In the world of project management, the roles we assume can significantly impact the outcome of our projects. Two primary approaches often emerge: the boss and the coach. Both styles have their merits, and knowing when to embody each can drive successful project delivery. But what exactly distinguishes these roles, and how can we effectively balance them? Understanding the Nuances: Boss vs. Coach The Boss: Autocratic Leader Approach A boss, in the traditional sense, exercises control and authority over the team. This approach is characterized by a clear hierarchy, where decisions are made at the top and communicated down the chain of command. The boss sets expectations, monitors performance closely, and often takes corrective actions to ensure targets are met. Characteristics of a Boss: 1. Decisive and Directive: Makes quick decisions and provides clear instructions. 2. Control-Oriented: Focuses on maintaining control over processes and outcomes. 3. Performance-Focused: Prioritizes meeting deadlines and achieving specific results. 4. Accountability-Enforcing: Holds team members accountable for their responsibilities. The Coach: Collaborative Leader Approach A coach, on the other hand, emphasizes collaboration, development, and empowerment. This approach involves guiding the team, fostering a supportive environment, and encouraging personal and professional growth. The coach acts as a…
A common question that I am asked as a project management coach is how to decide on which industry association is the best fit, to support an individual in their project management development journey. This is not an easy question to answer. Guidance is often dependent on a number of factors, including in which country the individual is based, the type of projects that they are hoping to work on, preferred qualifications they would like to pursue, if there are cost considerations that need to be factored in and whether the purpose is to develop an individuals profile or undertake networking. In some cases, employers may specify the project association that staff are required to join, as this may determine a qualification route, align with the organization’s corporate membership, or meet client specifications. It is possible to hold membership of multiple associations, and often there are complementary factors, such as access to a range of research. Or preferential access to sector events, awards and speakers. Staying informed and connected within the project management community is a key reason to seek association membership. Either as a full member or, as a student or junior member for those early on in their…
Today, we’re tackling a crucial aspect which defines the success of any project: Effective Decision-Making The many complexities inherent in project management, introduce significant and numerous hurdles to effective decision-making. That’s why: I want to share with you the 3Cs Framework for decision making. Use it to quickly undertake decision making by systematically assessing the problem, analyzing the critical components and then coming up with a range of potential solutions. Projects, by their nature, involve a multitude of variables that demand careful consideration. The pressure to meet deadlines intensifies the decision-making process, often making choices feel like high-stake bets. Uncertainty in the business environment adds yet another layer of difficulty, as project managers navigate through unpredictable circumstances. Striking a balance between the need for quick decisions and the requirement for thorough analysis is an ongoing challenge. In addition, human factors, like cognitive biases and emotional influences, can impact objectivity. In essence, decision-making in project management involves a delicate equilibrium between analysis and intuition, speed and thoroughness, all within a constantly evolving environment. Navigating these challenges is fundamental to achieving effective decision-making in project management. As project managers, we often find ourselves at crossroads, facing decisions that can shape the course…
Let’s imagine two parallel projects in a busy corporate environment, both seek to implement cutting-edge technology systems that promise to revolutionise operations. The teams involved are both equally competent, and each has goals that are equally ambitious. As we observe from our vantage point and as the weeks turn into months, a stark divergence emerges. One project sails smoothly to completion, celebrated for its seamless execution, while the other stumbles through delays and confusion, ultimately failing to deliver. What made the difference? This is not an exceptional scenario, it is happening every day, in the very projects and initiatives that as project practitioners we are all involved in. From my own experience with over 20 years in the profession, the secret to the variance in the project success, typically lays not in the complexity of the projects or the capabilities of the teams but in the art of effective project reporting. And more specifically the resulting ability of those within the project teams to effectively, decision-make based on the optimal understanding of how the project is operating in real-time and the resultant outputs that this will drive. Typically the successful project has harnessed a clear, consistent, and insightful reporting process,…
As we embark on a new era of project management delivery, we are rapidly reassessing what it means to be an effective leader. In a period where the development of technology is changing the rules of management, a new order in leadership is being set. In the past, leadership often conjured images of assertive, outgoing individuals commanding attention and driving teams with bold directives. However, leadership is no longer synonymous with being the loudest voice in the room. Many across the industry are celebrating the rise of a new dawn. Introverts, with their unique strengths and perspectives, are increasingly proving that quiet leadership can be profoundly impactful. This post explores how introverted project and other industry professionals can thrive in leadership roles, leveraging the levers of culture, data intelligence, team coherence, personal accountability, and technology to drive project success. Embracing the Power of Introverted Leadership 1. Leveraging Deep Thinking and Preparation Introverts excel in thoughtful analysis and meticulous planning, which are cornerstones of effective project management. Their propensity for deep thinking allows them to foresee potential challenges and develop comprehensive strategies, ensuring smoother project execution. With the ongoing rise of mega technologies, this thinking power is being delivered on steroids,…
Welcome to the Project Manager’s Confidence Booster Edition! If you are a new project manager looking to overcome the daunting challenges that come with the role, or even a seasoned project manager looking to refine your project and programme presence, then my article today is for you. If you have ever felt overwhelmed or concerned about dealing with difficult clients, complex meetings, or the pressure of bringing projects back on track while managing a diverse team, sponsors, and project boards? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! And often it is not just about the skills you have or don’t have, but in my experience it about the confidence that you are able to generate and portray, in the multitude of situations that you might find yourself in. This week’s article is all about boosting your confidence as a project manager and providing you with some valuable tips on tackling common fears that project managers often face. You have what it takes to excel in this role, and the tips below will help you to discover your inner project management superhero! ????Watch to get 5 hacks on how to exude confidence on your pojects: 5 Ways to Look More Confident – When…
