When it comes to project management, many seek the elusive "number one skill" that defines a great project manager. However, the reality is that there isn't a single skill that stands alone. Instead, being an exceptional project manager involves a blend of skills, qualities, and personality traits. In my experience, excelling in four main areas is crucial: strategic thinking, engaging leadership, exceptional interpersonal skills, and acting as a catalyst for change.
Strategic Thinking
Great project managers are strategic thinkers. They have the ability to anticipate challenges and identify opportunities before they arise. Instead of merely reacting to problems as they occur, they foresee potential issues and prepare accordingly. This foresight allows them to pivot when necessary, ensuring that the project remains on track despite unforeseen obstacles. Flexibility is key in strategic thinking, enabling project managers to adapt to changing circumstances without losing sight of the project's objectives.
Engaging Leadership
Leadership in project management goes beyond merely overseeing tasks and deadlines. Engaging leaders exhibit empathy and focus on delivering value. They genuinely care about their team’s well-being and foster a collaborative environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to contribute. This empathetic approach builds trust and encourages team members to invest their best efforts into the project, enhancing overall productivity and morale.
Exceptional Interpersonal Skills
Communication and teamwork are the backbone of successful project management. Exceptional project managers possess strong interpersonal skills, allowing them to communicate effectively and build cohesive teams. They are adaptive, capable of juggling multiple priorities without dropping the ball. By creating a great working environment, they navigate complexities with ease and foster a sense of unity among their teams. These interpersonal abilities ensure that all team members are aligned and working towards common goals, minimising conflicts and enhancing collaboration.
Catalysts for Change
Great project managers act as catalysts for change, driving progress and innovation within their teams and organisations. They excel at navigating complexity, ensuring that systems in place are robust and resilient. By focusing on long-term goals rather than short-term fixes, they help their teams avoid common pitfalls like silos and insincerity. This forward-thinking approach promotes sustainable growth and continuous improvement, positioning the project for lasting success.
Creating a Culture of Excellence
I founded my company with the aim of counteracting common issues in project management. By embodying these essential qualities—being strategic, engaging, and resilient—we create a culture where short-term thinking, silos, fragile systems, and insincerity don’t stand a chance. This culture not only supports the success of individual projects but also contributes to the overall growth and sustainability of the organisation.
Striving for Excellence in Project Management
Being a great project manager isn't about mastering a single skill but about integrating multiple competencies to lead effectively. Strategic thinking, engaging leadership, exceptional interpersonal skills, and acting as a catalyst for change are the cornerstones of exceptional project management. By developing and honing these areas, project managers can drive their teams towards success, fostering an environment of continuous improvement and sustainable growth. Embrace these qualities to elevate your project management capabilities and achieve excellence in your professional endeavours.If you're interested in learning the skills to be an effective Project manager, check out our courses home page.
Further Reading
- Strategic Thinking: Prince2, Agile Alliance
- Engaging Leadership: Harvard Business Review - Leadership, MindTools - Communication Skills
- Catalysts for Change: Kotter’s 8-Step Change Model, Simon Sinek’s "Leaders Eat Last"
