Four Traits Of Successful Project Managers

Many people end up in the role of project manager without planning that career path. Most 'accidental project managers' are promoted to their new role by there employer because they have proven to be capable and expert in their area of expertise. Others set out be become PM's, they study the PMI guidelines, sit the PMI exams and work their way up.

Whichever type of PM you are, at some stage you'll want to know what does a project manager do, and what skills are required to be successful in this role.

The Project Manager's task is to successfully complete the goal of the project using the skills, tools and resources available to them while working within project restrictions. These restrictions can be organizational, e.g. budget and schedule, or environmental restrictions that can include legal and bureaucratic rules governing certain activities within a state (planning laws etc.).

The PM's required skills are varied and multiple but we'll have a brief look at those that are absolutely essential.

The PM will have to use all the charm and diplomatic skills they possess to win over people to their cause and get them to share their vision. They will share their vision with key stakeholders and their team alike. When the pressure is on they'll remain clam, while all around them loose their heads. They will lead by example and never exhibit doubt regarding the success of the project in front of their team.

Your team may consist of contractors, people from different departments and also people who have worked together for many years. Some of your team will not like change, some will not like each other. Turning them into one big happy family may be asking too much, but you will need to build a team that understands their roles and goals, and get the job done to the best of their individual and combined abilities.

Following on from the the previous skills that we mentioned, you will obviously need to be a good communicator. Key stakeholders usually require regular updates regarding progress and their needs and questions will need to be addressed promptly.

You'll also need to communicate with your team and deal with many different personalities. Negotiation skills will also come into play for agreeing terms with contractors and when competing for organizational resources with other departments within your company.

A project manger without good management skills will have a short and fruitless career. Your management skills should be good to start with, and get better as you grow into your new role. The success of the project will rely on these skills. This includes everything from managing information and documents to people and resources. A key to successful management is to remember your is not to do the work, but to manage others doing the work. If you are used to being hands-on with everything this can be difficult to do, but is absolutely necessary.

These are the key personal skills of a good project manger. As you learn your role better you will improve on each skill and add more over time.