Fun Stuff Only or Managing the Entire Project
Chances are good you have some project management skills. Certainly, there are project management professionals too, those who make a living managing projects. Are you skilled at managing the entire project?
I’ve worked with many different project management personalities.
There are those who like to talk about the project, but do very little tactically. There are those who hate the meetings and small talk but accomplish tremendous amounts of work.
Group Style
If you serve in a project group, a committee, or have the responsibility to lead or manage projects have you considered your style? What would others say about your style?
Years ago, I worked with a committee who had the responsibility for numerous events and activities throughout a year. Annual kickoff committee meetings always brought out a good amount of committee participation. Like many committees as time moved forward, participation dropped.
There were always standouts. The naysayers, the roadblocks, the pessimists, and on the other end of the spectrum there were the overachievers, the overcommitted, and the volunteer for everything (produce little) members.
Amid all this there were the steady members. Those who held things together, attained little recognition for large contributions, and dug in and got things done.
Do you pick and choose your contributions?
Entire Project
The most successful workplace professionals are well rounded with project management contributions.
It’s not appropriate or effective to manage only the pieces you truly enjoy.
If you’re inviting the in-laws over for dinner chances are good you’ll have to clean the house first. You’ll have to plan the meal, snacks, and beverages. Shopping for the necessities are on the list too. Then the meal prep, delivery, and the after dinner clean up.
Sure, you can delegate with the bring a dish, or bring your favorite beverage, but it’s still your responsibility.
Doing only the fun stuff only won’t complete the project and may result in unfavorable judgment.
-DEG
Dennis E. Gilbert is a business consultant, speaker (CSPTM), and culture expert. He is a five-time author and the founder of Appreciative Strategies, LLC. His business focuses on positive human performance improvement solutions through Appreciative Strategies®. Reach him through his website at Dennis-Gilbert.com or by calling +1 646.546.5553.
