That effective Project Management often demands a good measure of analytical skills is obvious, but as was mentioned in previous posts on this topic, it’s the Project Manager’s Interpersonal Skills that makes the process go.
In a perfect world, Project Managers would just dictate, but in the dynamic environments of most organizations, politics and personalities often stand in the way of this ideal. And like it or not, Project Managers must develop their People Skills in order to deal with this reality.
Granted, interpersonal considerations are an additional burden on the Project Manager. They are unwelcome stressors for sure, but they can be managed if the Manager does not fall prey to any insecurities they may harbor about themselves regarding their age, experience, education, temperament or background.
Simply put, if a Project Manager allows himself to be intimidated, then others will take control of the agenda and the Manager’s influence on the project will be marginalized. As such, having self-confidence in one's abilities is paramount. Beyond this is the ability to use one's self-confidence to be more assertive.
Of course, Assertiveness represents a major step for some personality types, but if it is approached as a skill that is practiced and developed within the context of the Interpersonal, Negotiation and Work Management Skills required to complete any given project, the stretch need not be so broad.
From an Assertiveness Standpoint, here are some important considerations to remember for each of these areas:
Interpersonal Skills
* Establish rapport
* Demonstrate a willingness to work with others
* Speak and act appropriately
* Solicit input and dissenting opinions
* Exhibit political awareness
Negotiation Skills
* Operate from a position of competence
* Work towards a win-win outcome
* Be flexible, but know when to stand your ground
* Form useful alliances
Work Management Skills
* Rank priorities
* Set realistic time frames
* Announce how you will monitor activities
* Set high standards
* Deliver what you promise
Assertiveness continues to be one of the more popular self-help subjects, and there are many books, articles and seminars available on the topic. An online search or a trip to your local library will yield many useful resources for you.
Related Links:
How To Increase Your Assertiveness Skills
Top Ten Assertiveness Techniques
Assertiveness Techniques That Work
Jack
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