Project managers always have room for project improvement. Whether you are new to the world of project managing or have been in the role for quite some time, take a look at some of the tips below. If you’re new to the world of management, read on and pick up a few new ideas. If you’ve been at it for a long time, think of this as a refresher course—there might be a few concepts that could escape you and keeping yourself green is always a good idea.
Communicate Often and With Clarity
If you want to be successful in your position as a project manager, you will need to be a clear and confident communicator and always stay in contact with your team and client, says Brad Egeland of ProjectInsight.com. Remember, you are the person who the client will contact with questions or concerns. Egeland suggests that if you put reminders in place on your project resource management calendar to follow up with team members and clients. Touching base with your team is equally important so you have information on the stages of your client’s project, so you can relay your progress during client/company meetings.
Set Your Agenda and Stick to it
Before you meet with your client or your team, chart a game plan that is loose but practical, and make sure that everyone is on the same page. A good way to do this is to use a web-based project management program that you can alter to fit the needs of your project. And use Microsoft’s Outlook calendar application to schedule weekly or biweekly meetings with your creative team and with your clients. Make sure that you have an agenda for each planning stage and for each meeting and that you don’t jump ahead of your project’s development. Stick to your agenda and if something comes up unexpectedly that needs to be addressed, deal with it and then move on to the next item.
Plan a Kickoff Meeting
Have at least one meeting that will bring all of the elements of the project together. It is essential to quickly and accurately gauge the full scope of the client’s needs. TechRepublic.com‘s Michael Sisco says a well prepared kickoff meeting is essential to the progression of a project. Also, having an internal meeting can be a great way to brainstorm possible ideas, concepts and budget your time with your team.
Whether your company has a large budget or you’re working on a shoestring, these simple practices are essential to the success of any project. Communication, organization and implementation of these concepts will help you on your journey to becoming a great project manager with an supply of happy clients who will provide you with lots of referrals.
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