Project managers and leaders are not the same thing. A leader can motivate their team by clearly explaining why the tasks at hand are important and by providing a more comprehensive view of the project’s goals.
On the other hand, the responsibilities of a project manager include effectively completing a project, actively overseeing project constraints, and exhibiting competence in managing stakeholders and risks.
Finding project managers capable of project management and leadership is where the gold is.
So, what qualities do you need to look for in a project manager who possesses great leadership qualities? Below is a list I’ve put together for you:
Vision
A competent leader should be able to successfully convey their vision to the team and have a clear vision for the project or business.
Communication Skills
In order to share ideas, offer criticism, and encourage teamwork, a leader must be able to communicate effectively.
Further Reading: | PMBOK Principle 3 – EFFECTIVELY ENGAGE WITH STAKEHOLDERS |
Adaptability
In dynamic settings, leaders must possess the ability to adjust to shifting conditions and make wise choices.
Problem-Solving Skill
Overcoming obstacles and arriving at wise conclusions require a strong problem-solving skillset.
Decisiveness
Leaders must be able to make difficult decisions with confidence, frequently based on insufficient knowledge.
Empathy
Establishing solid working connections with team members requires the capacity to comprehend and relate to their needs and concerns.
Further Reading: | PMBOK Principle 6 – LEADERSHIP |
Team Building
Skilled leaders are able to put together and manage productive teams by identifying each member’s advantages and disadvantages in order to form a cohesive unit.
Further Reading: | How to Promote Team Collaboration in Your Organisation |
Accountability
They ought to lead by example by accepting accountability for their choices and deeds.
Further Reading: | 10 Post Pandemic Project Management Skills |
Integrity
Honesty and integrity are key components of leadership, and leaders must uphold these values.
Organisational Skills
To achieve project or organisational objectives, effective leaders can plan and manage resources, budgets, and timelines.
Further Reading: | What Does a Project Manager Do? |
Motivational Skills
In order to keep their team focused on the task at hand, they should be able to inspire and motivate them.
Conflict Resolution
Team leaders need to be adept at handling and resolving disagreements that may come up.
Further Reading: | How to manage a saboteur in your team |
Technical Proficiency
For certain positions, leaders must possess a strong grasp of the technical facets of the project or sector they oversee.
Results-Oriented
In the end, leaders ought to be concentrated on accomplishing goals and attaining outcomes.
Lifelong Learning
To remain current and productive in their positions, good leaders frequently have an open mind and strive for personal development.
Further Reading: | PMBOK Principle 9 – NAVIGATING PROJECT COMPLEXITY |
It is noteworthy that the attributes that are sought after in a leader might differ based on the company, the sector, and the individual team or project.
Furthermore, as effective leadership is a dynamic and complicated notion, it frequently requires a combination of these traits in the appropriate ratios depending on the circumstance.
