Have you thought about what makes a great project manager? There are plenty of blog posts about this out there. But I wanted to jot down some of my thoughts on what I like to see in a great project manager
- to check how my thoughts about this change over time on a later date
- and to hear what others like to see in a great project manager
Ability to lead teams
Since people like to be led rather than be managed, knowing how to lead teams and manage projects is an important skill.
Constant learners
Becoming good at something such as project management doesn’t happen overnight. It comes with experience – both successes and failures – in order to learn how to deliver consistently well. Learning from others mistakes is very important since you can’t afford to make all the mistakes yourself. As a constant learner, I have seen good leaders learning about how to better themselves, their teams and find different ways of improving their interpersonal skills.
Being conscious and aware
Great project managers, I find are conscious and aware of themselves and others. They are always trying to set their team for success. They can recognize when someone in the team needs support or providing insufficient information. They are conscious and aware of their plan and their team members’ estimates.
Develop and maintain good relationships
Good project managers show enthusiasm about their projects which can have a snowball effect and help teams achieve beyond expectations. They just don’t get the job done but also make people feel good about themselves too. They are good at nurturing relationships, both inside and outside of the teams.
Ability to collaborate and communicate effectively
Good project managers rarely sit at their desks since they are busy interacting/collaborating with stakeholders. This is all within boundaries – otherwise, things don’t get done.
They identify the people who will be impacted by the changes to a project and will involve them during key stages. They communicate proactively at all levels and respond promptly. Since they are clear about their goals and responsibilities, the information they are trying to give others or getting the information they need from others can be articulated very well by them. They can negotiate and use persuasion skills when necessary.
Decisive and resolute
Taking in a lot of data and making decisions is not easy. But good project managers make decisions promptly and appropriately. They get things done by being resolute.
Delegate appropriately
Without being a bottleneck, great project managers delegate effectively.
What do you like to see in a great project manager?
Now you know what are some of the traits I like to see in a great project manager.
I am interested to hear your thoughts about what you like to see in a great project manager. Please drop a comment below 🙂
