Are You Suited to Be a Successful Project Manager?

Having run hundreds of people through project post mortems, we know that not everyone is well equipped to lead and manage complex and visible projects.

The role of project manager is a critical one in any organization. Many aspire to that position because they like being central to a major effort…but few are able to handling this role effectively. Let’s take a look at project management in general and at the traits that make an effective project manager.

Projects Have a Beginning and an End
Project management appeals to many people because there is a beginning and an end to each endeavor. As a project manager, you will be responsible for defining, planning, organizing, motivating and controlling all the resources required to reach the stated goals. So if you like work that gives you structure and a sense of closure, project management may suit you. There are milestones and detailed deliverables to satisfy. When you hit intermediate goals on time and on budget, there is a sense of fulfillment. And when the project is complete with all specific objectives met, you can close the book on this project and be ready to take on another challenge.

Projects Rarely Go According to Plan
Another requirement for success as a project manager is being comfortable with change. You need to welcome, not just accept, it, because change is constant and inevitable in any project. As one button gets pushed, another needs to be pulled. The situation is very dynamic and, as project leader, you need to be able to flex with each shift and cope with each fluctuation while still exceeding stakeholder expectations. Think carefully about how you react when change is thrust upon you. Do you resist? Do you feel threatened? Or do you get energized by the unexpected and unpredictable variety of your job? Be sure you are in this last category before you take on the world of project management.

Communication is Key
A third facet of successful project management is modeling clear and open communication. The success of your project may well depend upon a team and stakeholders that trust and talk with one another. Too many times projects fail because one team member did not warn another of problems ahead…missed deadlines, dwindling resources, increased risks, or scope creep. Setting up regular times to connect the team to report on progress and brainstorm solutions as problems arise can be the critical factor to success. Create a winning team atmosphere where each supports the other and understands that all efforts are needed to achieve the desired outcome.

So, assess yourself. Do you like to take on work that is temporary in nature with a defined beginning and end? Do you warmly greet rather than shun change? Do you enjoy working with others to marshal their efforts toward a team goal? Then consider project management. If not, steer clear for the sake of yourself and those who would be working with you.