Congratulations! You are the newest project manager in your organization. Your new responsibilities may include preparing and completing action plans, overseeing the productivity of a team, problem-solving, and managing project budgets.
Below are nine strategies to ensure your success:
1. Use technology to your best advantage.
Install and use construction management software for builders and contractors. Maximizing your resources and keeping track of multiple tasks is simplified by the use of high-quality project management software. Take time to become proficient with the software and advocate for training for your team members before the project begins.
2. Confirm project details before you begin.
Obtain clear objectives and expectations before beginning your new project. Gathering as much information as possible allows you to develop a clear plan before you start. Clarify your client’s vision for the project as well as the timeline and budgetary constraints.
3. Develop a timeline with measurable goals.
A timeline with clear goals allows milestones and checkpoints to ensure that the project is on time. Allow time in your schedule to account for any unplanned delays.
4. Develop rapport with your team.
A good leader brings knowledge, confidence, and respect to the team. If you respect the work of your team and demonstrate your willingness to work as hard as they do, your team will strive to meet the project goals. Becoming familiar with your team’s strengths, skills, and communication styles allow you to lead from a place of knowledge.
5. Be proactive.
As you prepare to begin your project, look for tasks that might be more challenging or areas where you might need some support. Seek expertise during the planning stages to minimize delays later.
6. Check-in with your mentor or develop a relationship with a mentor.
Developing a mentor relationship with another professional will help you grow as a leader and project manager. An experienced mentor will help you to solve problems, build your team’s strengths, and to improve your relationships with both clients and vendors.
7. Communicate with your customers early and often.
As the project manager, your primary job is to make the client happy. Take time to meet with the customer to ensure a clear understanding of their needs and provide frequent updates.
8. Embrace leadership.
As the project manager, your team will seek support and guidance from you. Seek feedback from your staff. Your ability to demonstrate respect, confidence, and vulnerability will increase your staff’s loyalty.
9. Evaluate your team’s performance after project completion.
After completing the project, gather your team together and evaluate the project outcomes. Take time to identify both strengths and weaknesses. In addition to collecting information to prepare your next project better, you will increase your team’s commitment to working with each other and for you.
For some, being a project manager is one step on their way up the corporate ladder, but for others, it is a work that they love. Either way, the experience of leading a team as a project manager can develop your professional strengths. Implementing the above strategies will help you to grow as a leader and as a planner.
