As we step into the middle of 2023, the project management field continues to evolve at a rapid pace. With businesses becoming increasingly global and complex, project managers are in high demand to ensure that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the satisfaction of stakeholders. The ability to possess the right project management skills has never been more crucial to stand out in a highly competitive job market.

Soft skills, such as leadership, communication, collaboration, and problem-solving, are essential in any profession. In contrast, technical skills like project planning, risk management, budgeting, and scheduling are specific to project management. However, in today’s project management field, employers are not just looking for technical expertise. They also seek well-rounded professionals who can lead and motivate teams to achieve project goals.

Project management skills are a combination of soft and technical skills that enable project managers to manage projects effectively.

In this article, we have compiled a comprehensive list of the top 25 project management skills that employers are looking for in 2023. We will provide insights into each skill, along with practical examples of how to showcase them on your resume.

Whether you are looking to land your first project management job or seeking a career transition, this article will be helpful. It will equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to stand out in the project management field.

In this article I will cover:

A complete list of Project Management Skills

Project Management Hard Skills

Project Management Soft Skills

Complete Project Management Skills List

Hard Skills	Soft Skills
Project planning	Leadership
Scheduling	Communication
Budgeting	Collaboration
Resource management	Conflict resolution
Risk management	Problem-solving
Quality management	Critical thinking
Contract management	Team management
Scope management	Emotional intelligence
Change management	Decision-making
Cost management	Time management
Procurement management	Adaptability
Data analysis	Creativity
Process improvement	Influence and persuasion
Technical knowledge	Coaching and mentoring
Agile/Scrum methodology	Negotiation

Project Management Hard Skills and How to Develop Them

Project management hard skills are the specific technical abilities that enable project managers to plan, execute, and monitor projects effectively. These skills are crucial in the project management field, as they help project managers to deliver projects on time, within budget, and to the satisfaction of stakeholders. However, not all project managers possess these skills naturally, and they must be developed through training, education, and experience.

To develop project management hard skills, it is essential to start with the fundamentals. Project planning, scheduling, budgeting, and resource management are the core hard skills that every project manager must master. Training and certifications in these areas can provide a solid foundation in project management and prepare project managers for more complex projects.

In addition to the fundamentals, project managers can also develop hard skills in specific areas of expertise. These areas may include risk management, quality management, procurement management, and technical knowledge.

These skills can be acquired through on-the-job training, mentoring, or self-study. Project managers can also stay updated with the latest trends and practices in the project management field by attending conferences, workshops, and seminars.

The Hard Skills

1. Project planning

Project planning is the process of defining project goals, objectives, tasks, and timelines to achieve those goals. It is an essential component of the project management process, as it establishes a roadmap for the project and provides a framework for project execution. Here are some key aspects of project planning:

• Defining project scope: This involves identifying the deliverables, tasks, and activities required to achieve project goals.
• Establishing project timelines: This involves creating a project schedule that outlines the start and end dates of each task and activity.
• Identifying project resources: This involves identifying the people, materials, and equipment needed to complete the project.
• Developing a budget: This involves estimating the costs associated with each task and activity and allocating resources accordingly.

How to Develop Project Planning Skills

To develop project planning skills, it is essential to gain knowledge and experience in the following areas.

First, familiarize yourself with project management methodologies such as Agile, Scrum, and Waterfall. Doing so will help you understand the different approaches to project planning. Additionally, you should become familiar with project planning software such as Microsoft Project and Primavera P6. This will allow you to learn how to create and manage project schedules effectively.

Effective project planning requires a range of skills, including strong communication and risk management abilities. To communicate project goals, objectives, and timelines effectively, it’s essential to develop your communication skills. This will enable you to engage effectively with stakeholders, team members, and sponsors. In addition, to effectively identify potential project risks and plan appropriate mitigation strategies, you should focus on developing your risk management skills.

When it comes to project planning and the concept of “planning” in general, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. To truly master this skill, it’s important to explore different perspectives and learn from various experts in the field. One effective way to do this is by diversifying your learning and consuming a variety of materials.

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2. Scheduling

Project scheduling is the process of creating a detailed project plan that outlines the specific tasks, activities, and milestones required to complete a project within a given timeline. It is a critical component of project management, as it provides a roadmap for project execution and enables project managers to track progress, identify potential delays, and make adjustments to keep the project on track. Here are some key aspects of project scheduling:

• Creating a work breakdown structure (WBS): A WBS is a hierarchical breakdown of the project into smaller, more manageable components. This helps to identify all the tasks and activities required to complete the project.
• Identifying task dependencies: Task dependencies are the relationships between tasks that determine the order in which they need to be completed. Identifying these dependencies is essential for creating a realistic project schedule.
• Estimating task durations: Task durations are the estimated time required to complete each task. This is an important factor in determining the overall project timeline.
• Allocating resources: Allocating resources involves identifying the people, equipment, and materials needed to complete each task and activity.

How to Develop Project Scheduling Skills

Developing project scheduling skills requires gaining knowledge and experience in various areas.

First, effective time management skills are essential to ensure project deadlines are met. Developing your time management skills will help you prioritize tasks, avoid procrastination, and manage your workload effectively.

In addition, effective communication with stakeholders, team members, and sponsors is critical for project scheduling. Therefore, developing your communication skills is necessary to ensure everyone is aware of project timelines, milestones, and deadlines.

As part of our commitment to supporting your growth and development, we are pleased to offer you a complimentary WBS (Work Breakdown Structure) template. With this tool, you can effectively plan and schedule your project by breaking it down into smaller, manageable tasks and assigning them to the appropriate team members. This template can help streamline your workflow and ensure that everyone is on the same page, ultimately leading to a more successful project outcome.

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3. Project Budgeting

Project budgeting is the process of estimating the total cost of a project and allocating resources to complete it within a given budget. Effective project budgeting is crucial to the success of a project, as it ensures that resources are utilized efficiently and that the project remains financially viable. Here are some key aspects of project budgeting:

• Identifying project costs: This involves identifying all the costs associated with the project, including personnel, equipment, materials, and any other expenses.
• Creating a budget breakdown: A budget breakdown is a detailed breakdown of the total project cost into specific cost categories. This helps to identify where resources are being allocated and where cost savings can be achieved.
• Allocating resources: Allocating resources involves determining how much of each resource is required for each project task and activity.

How to Develop Project Budgeting Skills

Developing project budgeting skills requires gaining knowledge and experience in various areas.

First, project budgeting requires a solid understanding of financial analysis concepts, such as cost-benefit analysis, payback periods, and return on investment (ROI). Therefore, it is important to develop your financial analysis skills to accurately estimate project costs and ensure that the project remains financially viable.

Additionally, you should familiarize yourself with budgeting software, such as Excel or QuickBooks, to learn how to create and manage project budgets effectively.

Finally, negotiation skills are critical for project budgeting, as it often involves negotiating with stakeholders, vendors, and team members to achieve cost savings and ensure that resources are allocated appropriately. Hence, it is crucial to develop your negotiation skills to achieve the best possible outcomes for the project.

To further enhance project budgeting skills, there are several valuable resources available. “Project Management Absolute Beginner’s Guide” by Greg Horine provides a comprehensive overview of project management, including budgeting, for beginners. “Project Management Accounting: Budgeting, Tracking, and Reporting Costs and Profitability” by Kevin R. Callahan, Gary S. Stetz, et al. and “Project Cost Management: Principles, Tools, Techniques, and Best Practices for Project Finance” offer more advanced insights and techniques for effective budgeting and cost management in project management.

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4. Project Resource Management

Project resource management is the process of identifying, allocating, and managing the resources required for a project. Effective resource management ensures that resources are utilized efficiently and that project objectives are achieved within the given constraints. Here are some key aspects of project resource management:

• Resource identification: This involves identifying the resources required for the project, including personnel, equipment, materials, and any other resources needed to complete the project.
• Resource allocation: Resource allocation involves assigning resources to specific tasks and activities within the project. This ensures that resources are utilized efficiently and that each task has the necessary resources to be completed effectively.
• Resource monitoring and control: Resource monitoring and control involves tracking resource usage and ensuring that resources are being used effectively. This helps to identify any inefficiencies or over-utilization of resources and allows for corrective action to be taken.

How to Develop Project Resource Management Skills

To develop their ability to plan and manage resources effectively, a project manager can start by honing their skills in resource identification, forecasting, and allocation. This can involve understanding the various types of resources required for a project, including personnel, equipment, materials, and financial resources, and then creating a resource plan that balances the needs of the project with the available resources.

One useful resource for developing this skill is “Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling” by Harold Kerzner, which provides a comprehensive overview of project management, including resource planning and management. “Resource Management for Individuals and Families” by Elizabeth J. Normandy offers practical tips and techniques for managing resources in both personal and professional settings. Another helpful resource is “Effective Resource Management in Manufacturing Systems: Optimization Algorithms for Production Planning” by Massimiliano Caramia and Paolo Dell’Olmo, which explores advanced optimization techniques for managing resources in complex manufacturing systems.

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5. Project Risk Management

Project risk management is a critical process that involves identifying, assessing, and managing potential risks that could impact a project. Effective risk management aims to minimize the likelihood and impact of negative events while maximizing the likelihood and impact of positive events.

To achieve this, project managers must focus on various key aspects of risk management. One of these is risk response planning, which involves developing plans to mitigate or respond to identified risks. Risk response plans can include avoidance, mitigation, transfer, or acceptance strategies.

How to Develop Project Risk Management Skills

To develop their ability to plan and manage risks effectively, a project manager can start by understanding the basics of risk management, including identifying potential risks, assessing their potential impact, and developing a risk response plan. This can involve leveraging different tools and techniques, such as risk registers, risk analysis, and risk mitigation strategies.

One valuable resource for developing this skill is “Project Risk Management: Processes, Techniques and Insights” by Chris Chapman and Stephen Ward, which provides a comprehensive overview of risk management in project management, including strategies for risk identification and assessment. Another helpful resource is “Identifying and Managing Project Risk: Essential Tools for Failure-Proofing Your Project” by Cynthia Snyder, which offers practical tips and tools for managing project risks effectively. Additionally, “The Standard for Risk Management in Portfolios, Programs, and Projects ” by the Project Management Institute (PMI) provides insights into the key considerations for effective risk management.

Use the risk management template as a giveaway. Check if there are any affiliate programs

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6. Project Quality Management

Project quality management is the process of ensuring that a project meets the established quality standards and objectives. Effective quality management helps to ensure that the project deliverables meet stakeholder expectations and requirements. Here are some key aspects of project quality management:

• Quality planning: This involves identifying the quality standards and requirements for the project and developing a plan to ensure those standards are met. This plan should include quality objectives, metrics, and procedures for quality control and assurance.
• Quality control: This involves monitoring project deliverables to ensure they meet the established quality standards. Quality control activities can include inspections, reviews, and testing to identify defects and non-conformance to quality standards.
• Quality assurance: This involves ensuring that the processes and procedures used to develop the project deliverables are effective and efficient. Quality assurance activities can include process audits, reviews of project documentation, and process improvement initiatives.

How to Develop Project Quality Management Skills

To develop their ability to plan and manage quality effectively, a project manager can start by understanding the basics of quality management, including defining quality requirements, establishing quality standards, and implementing quality control and assurance processes. This can involve leveraging different tools and techniques, such as quality audits, inspections, and continuous improvement methodologies.

One valuable resource for developing this skill is “Quality Management for Projects and Programs” by Lewis R. Ireland, which provides a comprehensive overview of quality management in project management, including strategies for quality planning, assurance, and control. Another helpful resource is “The ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence Handbook” by Sandra L Furterer , Douglas C. Wood, Sandra L. Furterer, which offers practical guidance and tools for achieving quality excellence in projects and organizations. Additionally, “ISO 9000 Quality Systems Handbook-updated for the ISO 9001: 2015 standard: Increasing the Quality of an Organization’s Outputs” by David Hoyle has been the bible for organizations wanting to get certified and increase the quality of their outputs.

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7. Project Contract Management

Project contract management is a critical process that involves managing the contracts and agreements that are associated with a project. To ensure effective management, project managers should focus on various key aspects of contract management.

One of these is contract negotiation, which involves working with stakeholders to negotiate and finalize the terms and conditions of the contract. It may also involve identifying and mitigating any risks associated with the contract.

Another key aspect is contract administration, which involves managing the day-to-day aspects of the contract, such as ensuring that deliverables are completed on time and that payments are made according to the terms of the contract. It may also involve monitoring contract performance and ensuring that all parties are fulfilling their obligations.

Lastly, contract closeout is also essential, which involves ensuring that all obligations under the contract have been fulfilled, and that all parties are satisfied with the outcome. It may also involve conducting a final review of the contract to identify any lessons learned that can be applied to future projects.

How to Develop Project Contract Management Skills

To develop their ability to plan and manage contracts effectively, a project manager can start by understanding the basics of contract management, including contract development, negotiation, and administration. This can involve leveraging different tools and techniques, such as contract templates, contract performance tracking, and dispute resolution strategies.

One valuable resource for developing this skill is “Contract Management Body of Knowledge” by the International Association for Contract and Commercial Management (IACCM), which provides a comprehensive overview of contract management, including the development of contracts, contract management strategies, and dispute resolution techniques. Another helpful resource is “Contract and Commercial Management: The Operational Guide” by Van Haren Publishing, which offers practical guidance and tools for managing contracts effectively. Additionally, “A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide)” by the Project Management Institute (PMI) provides an overview of contract management within the context of project management.

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8. Project Scope Management

Project scope management is a crucial process that involves defining, documenting, and controlling the scope of a project to ensure project success. To achieve this, project managers must focus on several key aspects of scope management.

Firstly, scope planning involves defining the project scope, creating a scope statement, and developing a scope management plan. This involves identifying the project objectives, requirements, deliverables, and constraints.

Secondly, scope definition involves developing a detailed project scope statement that includes all project requirements and deliverables. This may also involve creating a work breakdown structure (WBS) to further define the project scope.

Finally, scope control involves monitoring the project scope to ensure that it remains within the approved boundaries. This may also involve managing changes to the scope and ensuring that any changes are properly documented, approved, and communicated to stakeholders.

How to Develop Project Scope Management Skills

To develop their ability to plan and manage scope effectively, a project manager can start by understanding the basics of scope management, including defining the project scope, developing a scope statement, and managing scope changes. This can involve leveraging different tools and techniques, such as work breakdown structures, scope verification, and scope control.

One valuable resource for developing this skill is “A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide)” by the Project Management Institute (PMI), which offers an overview of scope management within the context of project management. Additionally, “Project Scope Management: A Practical Guide to Requirements for Engineering, Product, Construction, IT and Enterprise Projects” by Jamal Moustafaev provides practical guidance and tools for managing project scope effectively.

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9. Project Change Management

Project change management is a vital process that involves managing changes to project scope, schedule, budget, or quality in a controlled and systematic way. To effectively manage project changes, project managers must focus on various key aspects of change management.

First, they need to identify potential changes to the project scope, schedule, budget, or quality. This may be done through various means such as project team meetings, stakeholder feedback, or risk management activities.

Once potential changes have been identified, the next step is to conduct a change impact analysis. This involves assessing the potential impact of the proposed changes on the project objectives, schedule, budget, and quality. This may involve conducting a cost-benefit analysis, a risk analysis, or a stakeholder analysis.

Finally, project managers need to obtain approval from relevant stakeholders before implementing the changes. This may involve revising the project plan, updating project documentation, or communicating the changes to project team members and stakeholders. By following these key aspects of project change management, project managers can ensure that project changes are managed in a controlled and systematic way.

How to Develop Project Change Management Skills

To develop their ability to plan and manage project change effectively, a project manager can start by understanding the basics of change management, including the change control process, change request documentation, and change impact analysis. This can involve leveraging different tools and techniques, such as change control boards, configuration management, and communication plans.

One valuable resource for developing this skill is “Effective Change Management: Ten Steps for Technical Professions” by David L. Goetsch and James R. Richburg, which provides a comprehensive overview of change management, including strategies for planning and implementing changes effectively. Another helpful resource is “A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide)” by the Project Management Institute (PMI), which offers an overview of change management within the context of project management. Additionally, “The Effective Change Manager’s Handbook: Essential Guidance to the Change Management Body of Knowledge” by Ranjit Sidhu, Dan Skelsey, Richard Smith and David King is explicitly designed to help practitioners, employers and academics define and practice change management successfully and to develop change management maturity within their organization.

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10. Project Cost Management

Project cost management is the process of planning, estimating, and controlling project expenses to ensure that the project is completed within the approved budget. It involves identifying and analyzing costs associated with each project activity and making necessary adjustments to ensure that the project remains within budget. Here are some key aspects of project cost management:

1. Cost estimating is an essential aspect of project management as it helps to determine the budget required for completing a project. It involves predicting the cost of each project activity or task, and this requires a thorough understanding of the resources required to complete each task, as well as any potential risks or challenges that could impact cost.
2. Cost budgeting: This involves allocating the estimated cost to each project activity or task. It requires a clear understanding of the project scope, schedule, and resource requirements to ensure that the project remains within budget.
3. Cost control: This involves monitoring project costs and making necessary adjustments to ensure that the project remains within budget. It requires ongoing monitoring of project expenses and frequent communication with project stakeholders to ensure that they are aware of any changes or updates to the budget.

How to Develop Project Cost Management Skills

To develop their ability to plan and manage project cost management effectively, a project manager can start by understanding the basics of cost management, including cost estimation, cost budgeting, and cost control. This can involve leveraging different tools and techniques, such as earned value management, cost benefit analysis, and forecasting.

One valuable resource for developing this skill is “Cost Management: A Strategic Emphasis” by Edward Blocher et al., which covers the strategic and tactical aspects of cost management within the context of business decision making. Additionally, “Earned Value Project Management” by Quentin W. Fleming and Joel M. Koppelman provides practical guidance and tools for managing project costs effectively.

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11. Project Procurement Management

Project procurement management involves several key aspects. To begin with, it requires identifying the goods or services needed for the project and deciding whether to procure them internally or externally.

Once the needs are identified, the next step is to prepare procurement documents, which typically include RFPs, RFQs, and ITBs to request bids from vendors.

After receiving bids, the next step is to evaluate them and select the vendor that best meets project requirements.

Finally, the procurement process needs to be managed effectively, which includes negotiating contracts, monitoring vendor performance, and resolving any issues that arise during the procurement process.

How to Develop Project Procurement Management Skills

To develop their ability to plan and manage procurement effectively, a project manager can start by understanding the basics of procurement, including identifying procurement needs, developing procurement strategies, and selecting vendors. This can involve leveraging different tools and techniques, such as make-or-buy analysis, request for proposal (RFP), and contract negotiation.

One valuable resource for developing this skill is “Project Procurement Management: Contracting, Subcontracting, Teaming” by Quentin W. Fleming and Joel M. Koppelman, which provides a comprehensive overview of procurement management, including strategies for planning and controlling procurement activities. Another helpful resource is “Procurement Project Management Success: Achieving a Higher Level of Effectiveness” by Diana L. Lindstrom, which covers the strategic and tactical aspects of procurement within the context of project management. Additionally, “Contract and Commercial Management: The Operational Guide” by International Association for Contract & Commercial Management provides practical guidance and tools for managing procurement effectively.

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12. Project Data Analysis

Project data analysis refers to the process of examining project-related data in order to draw meaningful insights and make informed decisions. With the rise of big data and the growing importance of data-driven decision-making, project managers who are skilled in data analysis are highly valued in today’s job market. Here are some key aspects of project data analysis:

Data collection: gathers relevant data from various sources, such as project management software, spreadsheets, and other databases.

Data cleaning: removes any irrelevant, incomplete, or inaccurate data to ensure that the analysis is based on high-quality data.

Data analysis: uses statistical and analytical methods to extract insights from the data and identify patterns, trends, and correlations.

How to Develop Project Data Skills

To develop their ability to plan and manage data analysis effectively, a project manager can start by understanding the basics of data analysis, including data collection, cleaning, and analysis techniques. This can involve leveraging different tools and techniques, such as data visualization, statistical analysis, and machine learning.

One valuable resource for developing this skill is “Data Smart: Using Data Science to Transform Information into Insight” by John W. Foreman, which provides a comprehensive overview of data analysis techniques, including strategies for planning and conducting data analysis projects. Another helpful resource is “Data Analytics in Project Management” by Seweryn Spalek, which aims to help the reader better understand the importance of data analysis in project management. Additionally, “Leading Complex Projects: A Data-Driven Approach to Mastering the Human Side of Project Management” by Edward W Merrow and Neeraj Nandurdikar provides a post mortem analysis linking PM characteristics quantitatively.

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13. Project Process Improvement

In the world of project management, it’s crucial to have a solid understanding of the processes that drive your projects forward. These processes could include everything from budgeting and invoicing to project delivery and performance evaluation. Understanding these processes and how they relate to each other is what we refer to as process management. Here are a few examples of common project management processes:

Firstly, Resource management involves identifying the personnel, equipment, and other resources needed to complete a project on time and within budget. This requires careful planning and coordination to ensure that all necessary resources are available when needed.

Secondly, Project launch includes all the activities necessary to initiate a project, such as defining project goals, establishing timelines, and allocating resources. This is a critical phase of the project and sets the stage for its success or failure.

Lastly, Performance evaluation involves measuring project performance against established metrics and identifying areas for improvement. This helps project managers to identify problems early on and take corrective action to keep the project on track.

To improve your process management skills, there are several things you can do. First and foremost, it’s essential to map and document your key processes thoroughly. Once you have done this, you can then focus on optimizing these processes for maximum efficiency and effectiveness. Here are some tips that can help you in this regard:

• Identify key stakeholders: Make sure you understand who the key stakeholders are for each process and involve them in the process management discussions.
• Look for areas of improvement: Conduct regular process audits to identify areas where processes could be improved, streamlined, or automated.
• Monitor performance: Use performance metrics to track the effectiveness of your processes over time and make adjustments as needed.

How to Develop Project Process Skills

Improving your project process skills is essential to succeed in project management. There are various ways to enhance your skills, and here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Take relevant courses: Taking courses in project management can provide you with in-depth knowledge and skills. Several online courses offer project management training, including Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning. These courses cover topics such as project planning, scheduling, budgeting, risk management, and more. You can choose the course that aligns with your interests and goals.
2. Read books on project management: There are many great books on project management that can help you improve your skills. Some of the popular books in this field include “Contemporary Project Management : Plan-Driven and Agile Approaches” by Timothy Kloppenborg et al., “The Art of Project Management (The Skillful PM)” by Tom Sheppard, and “The Agile Samurai: How Agile Masters Deliver Great Software” by Jonathan Rasmusson. These books cover topics such as project planning, execution, risk management, leadership, and more.
3. Attend workshops and seminars: Attending workshops and seminars on project management can help you learn from experts in the field and gain practical insights. Many organizations offer workshops and seminars on project management, including the Project Management Institute (PMI) and the International Association of Project Managers (IAPM).

Improving your project process skills requires effort and dedication. By taking relevant courses, reading books, attending workshops and seminars, and implementing what you learn, you can improve your project management skills and achieve success in your career.

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14. Project Technical Knowledge

Project technical knowledge refers to the understanding of the technical aspects of a project, including the tools, techniques, and methodologies used to complete it. A project manager with strong technical knowledge can better understand the requirements and potential issues associated with a project, resulting in more effective management and decision-making. Here are some key aspects of project technical knowledge:

To be an effective project manager, it’s important to have technical knowledge in addition to project management skills. Here are two examples of how technical knowledge can benefit a project manager:

Understanding project requirements: By having technical knowledge, a project manager can better understand the technical requirements of a project. This includes knowing what software and hardware are necessary for successful completion.

Knowledge of project management tools: Many project management tools, such as Gantt charts, critical path analysis, and risk management software, require technical knowledge to use effectively. Having this knowledge allows a project manager to fully utilize these tools and manage projects more efficiently.

Ability to communicate with technical teams: Project managers with technical knowledge can communicate more effectively with technical teams, understand their challenges, and provide solutions to technical issues.

Project technical knowledge can elevate a project manager to an expert, allowing them to manage complex projects more effectively. Here are some examples of how technical knowledge can be applied in project management:

Software development: A project manager with technical knowledge of software development can better understand the requirements, constraints, and issues associated with developing software. Engineering projects: A project manager with technical knowledge of engineering principles can better understand the technical requirements of a project, communicate effectively with engineers, and make informed decisions about project execution. Construction projects: A project manager with technical knowledge of construction methods and materials can better understand the requirements of a project, communicate effectively with construction teams, and make informed decisions about project execution.

How to Develop Project Technical Skills

To develop project technical knowledge, project managers can enrol in technical training courses or read technical books and articles.

Keep an eye out for the Project Management Nerd Membership. This membership provides project managers with an opportunity to develop technical knowledge and skills, as well as network with one another. You can add your name to our waitlist, and we’ll notify you when our membership site is up.

Also, technical books, such as “A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge” and “The Lean Six Sigma Pocket Toolbook,” can provide project managers with in-depth knowledge of technical concepts and tools.

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15. Agile/Scrum methodology

Agile/scrum methodology is an iterative and incremental approach to project management. This methodology emphasizes flexibility, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement. Here are some key aspects of agile/scrum methodology:

• Iterative approach: Agile/scrum projects are divided into small, iterative cycles called sprints. This allows for flexibility and enables teams to adapt to changes as they arise.
• Collaborative approach: Agile/scrum emphasizes collaboration and communication between team members, customers, and stakeholders. This helps ensure that everyone is aligned and working towards the same goals.
• Continuous improvement: Agile/scrum encourages teams to continuously improve their processes and products through feedback and retrospectives.

How to Develop Agile/Scrum Skills

o develop their ability to plan and manage Agile/Scrum projects effectively, a project manager can start by understanding the principles of Agile/Scrum and how they differ from traditional project management methodologies. This involves learning about Agile/Scrum ceremonies, roles, and artifacts, as well as the Agile/Scrum mindset and values.

One valuable resource for developing this skill is “Scrum: The Art of Doing Twice the Work in Half the Time” by Jeff Sutherland, which provides an introduction to Scrum methodology and practical guidance for implementing it in project management. Another helpful resource is “Agile Estimating and Planning” by Mike Cohn, which covers Agile project management techniques for estimating and planning, including creating user stories, product backlogs, and sprint planning. Additionally, “Agile Project Management with Scrum: Comprehensive Guide to Agile Project Management with Scrum” by Alex Campbell provides a comprehensive overview of Scrum methodology, including strategies for planning and executing Agile projects.

We would like to offer you a free eBook titled “21 Agile Pain Points” which provides tips and techniques for addressing common challenges in Agile project management. Just follow the prompt and we will send you the free eBook to your inbox.

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Soft Skills

16. Leadership

Project leadership is the ability to inspire and guide a team towards achieving a common goal. It involves taking charge of a project, setting direction, and motivating team members to work together to produce results. Here are some key aspects of project leadership:

• Vision: Project leaders need to have a clear vision of what they want to achieve and communicate it to the team. This involves setting goals, defining the scope, and outlining the project roadmap.
• Communication: Project leaders need to be effective communicators to build strong relationships with team members, stakeholders, and clients. This involves listening actively, providing feedback, and conveying information in a clear and concise manner.
• Decision-making: Project leaders need to make informed decisions quickly and confidently. This involves analyzing information, weighing options, and taking action.

How to Develop Leadership Skills

Developing project leadership skills requires continuous learning and improvement. Here are some ways to enhance your project leadership skills:

• Take a course: There are numerous courses available online that cover project leadership skills. For example, the Institute of Project Management course covers topics such as communication, conflict management, and team building.
• Read books: There are many books available that can help you develop project leadership skills. Some popular titles include “The Five Dysfunctions of a Team” by Patrick Lencioni and “Leadership and Self-Deception” by the Arbinger Institute.
• Seek feedback: Asking for feedback from colleagues, team members, and mentors can help you identify areas where you need to improve. This feedback can be used to set goals for personal development and track progress over time.

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17. Communication

Effective communication is critical for successful project management. It involves the exchange of information, ideas, and feedback between stakeholders to ensure everyone is on the same page. Here are some key aspects of project communication:

• Stakeholder communication: This involves communicating project status, updates, and issues to stakeholders, including sponsors, team members, and clients.
• Team communication: This involves promoting effective communication and collaboration among team members to ensure everyone is working towards the same goals.
• Documentation: This involves documenting project information, including meeting notes, decisions, and action items, to ensure everyone has access to the same information.

How to Develop Communication Skills

To develop strong communication skills, it’s essential to understand the principles of effective communication and practice them regularly. Here are some ways to develop your project communication skills:

• Take a communication course: There are many online and in-person courses available that focus on effective communication for project management. For example, the Project Management Institute (PMI) offers courses such as “Communication Skills for Project Managers” and “Managing Stakeholder Engagement.”
• Practice active listening: Active listening involves paying attention to what the other person is saying, asking clarifying questions, and providing feedback to ensure you understand their message. Practice active listening in your personal and professional life to improve your communication skills.
• Use communication tools: There are many communication tools available, such as email, chat apps, and project management software, that can help you communicate effectively with stakeholders and team members. Experiment with different tools to find the ones that work best for you and your team.

In addition to the above, reading books on effective communication can also help you develop your project communication skills. Some recommended books include “Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High” by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler, and “Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most” by Douglas Stone, Bruce Patton, and Sheila Heen.

We are pleased to offer you a valuable tool for managing stakeholders effectively: a free Stakeholder Register template. This template enables you to identify and assess the power and interest of your stakeholders, and provides guidance for developing a suitable engagement strategy for each stakeholder. By using this template, you can enhance your ability to communicate with stakeholders and manage their expectations throughout the project lifecycle.

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18. Collaboration

Project collaboration is essential in achieving common project goals and can significantly improve project outcomes. Effective project collaboration involves several key aspects.

Firstly, teamwork is critical in project collaboration as it requires effective communication, delegation of tasks, and collaboration to achieve project goals.

Secondly, effective communication is essential, and it involves sharing ideas, asking questions, and providing feedback in a clear and concise manner. Communication can occur through various channels such as email, video conferencing, and instant messaging.

Finally, using collaboration tools and technology such as project management tools, file sharing tools, and communication tools can significantly improve project collaboration.

How to Develop Collaboration Skills

Developing the ability to plan and manage collaboration in projects effectively is essential for project managers, especially in today’s increasingly complex and interconnected business environment. Here are three books that can help project managers enhance their collaboration skills:

1. “Collaborating with the Enemy: How to Work with People You Don’t Agree with or Like or Trust” by Adam Kahane. This book offers practical guidance for collaborating with individuals and groups that have conflicting interests, values, or worldviews. It provides a framework for building trust and creating shared solutions, which can help project managers navigate complex stakeholder relationships and achieve project success.
2. “Collaborative Project Management: A Handbook: A Workbook” by Eamonn McGuiness. This book offers a comprehensive overview of the collaborative project management process, including practical guidance for planning, executing, and evaluating collaborative projects. It covers topics such as stakeholder engagement, communication, conflict management, and performance measurement, providing project managers with a range of tools and techniques to enhance collaboration in their projects.
3. “A Concise Guide to Project Collaboration: Building a Delivery Organization” by Robin Hornby. This book demonstrates how:

• Managers can create an organizational environment more naturally adapted for project work and recognition of business priorities;
• Barriers to project work can be removed so project managers can focus on resolving real project problems;
• Specific collaborative project management methods engaging business owners, users, and technical teams can be illuminated and implemented;
• Projects can fit within an architecture that aligns with business needs using models and workflow designs; and
• Standardized delivery management can unify in-house and vendor teams to create a uniform and predictable owner experience.

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19. Conflict Resolution

Project conflict resolution involves managing and resolving disagreements or conflicts that may arise during a project. To do this effectively, it is important to follow a few key aspects of conflict resolution.

Firstly, it is essential to identify the conflict and understand its root cause. Once the conflict is identified, a conflict resolution plan should be created. This may involve bringing in a neutral third party or mediator to help resolve the issue.

Finally, the plan should be implemented and monitored to ensure that the conflict does not resurface. By following these steps, project managers can effectively manage and resolve conflicts, which is essential to ensure that project progress is not impeded and that team morale is maintained.

How to Develop Conflict Resolution Skills

Developing the ability to plan and manage conflict resolution in projects effectively is essential for project managers to ensure that their projects are completed on time, on budget, and to the satisfaction of all stakeholders. Here are three books that can help project managers enhance their conflict resolution skills:

1. “Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High” by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler. This book provides practical guidance on how to have difficult conversations with stakeholders, team members, and others in a way that is constructive and effective. It offers techniques for staying focused, maintaining composure, and resolving conflicts in a way that satisfies everyone involved.
2. “Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In” by Roger Fisher and William Ury. This book provides a framework for negotiating agreements that satisfy all parties involved in a conflict. It offers practical guidance on how to identify common ground, build trust, and explore options for resolution, all while maintaining a focus on mutual gain.
3. “The Power of Communication: Skills to Build Trust, Inspire Loyalty, and Lead Effectively” by Helio Fred Garcia. This book provides a comprehensive overview of communication skills, including practical guidance on how to listen effectively, build trust, and communicate clearly in a way that resolves conflicts and builds relationships. It offers insights and strategies that project managers can use to enhance their communication skills and build stronger relationships with stakeholders, team members, and others involved in their projects.

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20. Problem Solving

Project problem solving refers to the process of identifying, analyzing, and resolving issues that arise during a project’s life cycle. The main goal of problem-solving is to minimize the impact of issues on the project’s progress and ensure that the project is completed successfully. The following are some key points about project problem solving:

• Problem-solving is a continuous process that occurs throughout a project’s life cycle.
• Effective problem-solving requires collaboration and communication among team members.
• The process of problem-solving includes identifying the issue, analyzing the problem, generating solutions, selecting the best solution, and implementing it.

How to Develop Problem Solving Skills

Developing the ability to plan and manage problem solving in projects effectively is crucial for project managers to ensure the success of their projects. Here are three books that can help project managers enhance their problem-solving skills:

1. “Problem Solving 101: A Simple Book for Smart People” by Ken Watanabe. This book offers a simple and practical approach to problem-solving, including identifying the root cause of a problem, generating and evaluating potential solutions, and implementing the best solution. It provides a step-by-step guide that project managers can use to address problems in their projects.
2. “Design Thinking for Strategic Innovation: What They Can’t Teach You at Business or Design School” by Idris Mootee. This book provides a framework for design thinking, a problem-solving approach that emphasizes empathy, experimentation, and creativity. It offers practical guidance on how to apply design thinking to strategic innovation and problem-solving in projects.
3. “The Lean Startup: How Today’s Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses” by Eric Ries. This book provides a framework for lean startup methodology, which emphasizes rapid experimentation and iterative problem-solving. It offers practical guidance on how to test assumptions, learn from feedback, and pivot quickly in response to changing circumstances.

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21. Critical thinking

Project critical thinking is a multifaceted process that involves several key components.

Firstly, it requires analyzing complex problems and making logical decisions based on available data.

Additionally, critical thinking allows project managers to identify potential risks and develop solutions to mitigate them.

Lastly, critical thinking requires a combination of creativity, rational thinking, and strong analytical skills to ensure project success.

How to Develop Critical Thinking Skills

Developing project critical thinking skills is crucial for project managers as it enables them to analyze complex problems, identify potential risks, and make logical decisions based on available data. This, in turn, helps to ensure project success and develop innovative solutions. To better understand project critical thinking, consider the following key points:

• It involves analyzing complex problems and making logical decisions based on available data
• Critical thinking allows project managers to identify potential risks and develop solutions to mitigate them
• It requires a combination of creativity, rational thinking, and strong analytical skills

To develop critical thinking skills for project management, here are some steps you can take:

• Practice analyzing complex problems and breaking them down into smaller, more manageable components
• Develop an open-minded approach to problem-solving by considering different perspectives and possibilities
• Learn to recognize and challenge assumptions, and make decisions based on solid evidence

There are several courses and books available that can help you develop your critical thinking skills for project management. Some of the most popular ones include:

• “Critical Thinking for Better Judgment and Decision-Making” by Coursera – this online course provides practical techniques for developing critical thinking skills, including problem analysis and decision-making strategies
• “Critical Thinking: Tools for Taking Charge of Your Learning and Your Life” by Richard Paul and Linda Elder – this book provides a comprehensive guide to developing critical thinking skills for personal and professional growth
• “Thinking, Fast and Slow” by Daniel Kahneman – this book explores the way we think and make decisions, providing insights into how to improve our critical thinking abilities

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22. Team Management

Project team management is the process of overseeing and coordinating all aspects of a project team, from recruiting and training team members to managing team dynamics and ensuring everyone is working together towards the same goal. Effective team management is essential for ensuring a project is completed on time, within budget, and to the desired level of quality. Key aspects of project team management include:

• Recruiting and training team members: Ensuring the project team has the necessary skills and experience to complete the project successfully.
• Setting project goals and objectives: Clearly defining the project’s goals and objectives to ensure everyone is working towards the same outcomes.
• Managing team dynamics: Building a positive team culture and managing conflicts or challenges that arise within the team.

How to Develop Team Management Skills

To develop project team management skills, it’s essential to focus on both technical and interpersonal skills. Some key ways to improve team management skills include:

• Building relationships: Establishing strong relationships with team members and stakeholders can help to build trust and ensure everyone is working towards the same goals.
• Developing communication skills: Effective communication is essential for managing a project team, from setting expectations to providing feedback and resolving conflicts.
• Continuous learning: Staying up to date on the latest project management tools and techniques can help you manage your team more effectively. Consider taking courses or obtaining certifications such as the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification offered by the Project Management Institute.

Some helpful resources for developing project team management skills include:

• “Project Management: The Managerial Process” by Erik Larson and Clifford Gray: This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of project management, including team management best practices.
• “Managing Projects: A Team-Based Approach” by Karen Brown and Nancy Hyer: This book focuses specifically on managing project teams and provides practical tips for building and managing effective project teams.
• The Institute of Project Management offers certifications and training courses focused on project management skills, including team management.

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23. Emotional Intelligence

Project emotional intelligence refers to the ability of a project manager to recognize, understand, and manage their emotions, as well as the emotions of their team members, stakeholders, and clients. It involves the ability to communicate effectively, motivate team members, manage conflicts, and maintain positive working relationships. Some key aspects of project emotional intelligence include self-awareness, self-regulation, social awareness, and relationship management.

Here are some key bullet points that can help in understanding project emotional intelligence:

• Project emotional intelligence helps project managers to better manage their own emotions and those of others.
• It is crucial for creating a positive work environment and fostering better teamwork and collaboration.
• It can help project managers to communicate more effectively, resolve conflicts, and build stronger relationships with stakeholders.

How to Develop Emotional Intelligence Skills

Developing emotional intelligence (EI) is critical for project managers to lead and manage their teams effectively. Here are three books that can help project managers enhance their emotional intelligence skills:

1. “Emotional Intelligence 2.0” by Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves. This book provides practical strategies for developing emotional intelligence, including self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management. It includes an assessment tool that project managers can use to evaluate their EI skills and develop a personalized plan for improvement.
2. “Primal Leadership: Realizing the Power of Emotional Intelligence” by Daniel Goleman, Richard Boyatzis, and Annie McKee. This book explores the role of emotional intelligence in effective leadership, offering insights and strategies for managing emotions, building relationships, and leading teams. It provides practical guidance on how project managers can apply emotional intelligence to enhance their leadership skills and manage their projects more effectively.
3. “Leadership and Self-Deception: Getting Out of the Box” by The Arbinger Institute. This book explores the importance of empathy and perspective-taking in effective leadership, offering insights and strategies for overcoming self-deception and building more positive relationships with others. It provides practical guidance on how project managers can develop their emotional intelligence skills to manage their teams more effectively.

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24. Project Decision-Making

Project decision-making is the process of identifying and evaluating options and selecting the best course of action to achieve project objectives. Effective decision-making is crucial for successful project outcomes and requires a combination of analytical, strategic, and intuitive skills. Some key aspects of project decision-making include:

• Understanding project goals and objectives
• Identifying and analyzing available options
• Evaluating risks and potential consequences
• Considering the impact on stakeholders
• Communicating decisions clearly and effectively

How to Develop Decision-Making Skills

Effective decision-making is critical to project management success. Here are three books that can help project managers enhance their decision-making skills:

1. “Thinking, Fast and Slow” by Daniel Kahneman. This book explores the two systems of thinking and decision-making, offering insights into how we can improve our decision-making skills. It provides practical guidance on how project managers can use both intuition and logic to make better decisions in projects.
2. “The Decision Book: Fifty Models for Strategic Thinking” by Mikael Krogerus and Roman Tschäppeler. This book provides practical decision-making models that project managers can apply to their projects. It covers topics such as risk analysis, cost-benefit analysis, and decision trees, providing practical guidance on how to make more effective decisions.
3. “Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High” by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler. This book provides practical guidance on how to have difficult conversations and make decisions in high-stakes situations. It covers topics such as emotional intelligence, active listening, and dialogue, providing practical tools for effective decision-making in projects.

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25. Time Management

Project time management is a crucial aspect of successful project management. It involves planning, scheduling, and monitoring project timelines and deadlines to ensure that project tasks and goals are completed within a set time frame. Here are some key concepts related to project time management:

Firstly, planning: This involves developing a project timeline that outlines all of the tasks that need to be completed and when they should be completed by. A well-planned project timeline helps to keep the project on track and ensures that everyone involved in the project has a clear understanding of what needs to be done and when.

Secondly, scheduling: Allocating specific time periods for each task is necessary to ensure that they are completed on time and in the proper sequence. Scheduling helps to avoid conflicts and overlaps and ensures that all tasks are completed efficiently.

Lastly, monitoring: Keeping track of project progress is crucial to ensure that the project stays on schedule. Monitoring involves regularly checking the project’s status and making adjustments to the timeline as needed to ensure that the project stays on track.

How to Develop Time Management Skills

Time management is essential for project managers to deliver projects on time and within budget. Here are three book references that can help project managers develop their time management skills:

1. “Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity” by David Allen. This book offers practical guidance on how to manage tasks and projects effectively. It provides a framework for organizing tasks, setting priorities, and managing time, helping project managers to become more productive and efficient.
2. “The Pomodoro Technique” by Francesco Cirillo. This book introduces the Pomodoro Technique, a time management method that uses a timer to break down work into intervals, traditionally 25 minutes in length, separated by short breaks. This technique helps project managers to stay focused and avoid distractions, improving their productivity and time management skills.
3. “Eat That Frog!: 21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done in Less Time” by Brian Tracy. This book provides practical tips and strategies for overcoming procrastination and managing time effectively. It covers topics such as goal setting, prioritization, and time blocking, helping project managers to become more productive and efficient.

Here are three courses on Udemy and Coursera that can also help project managers develop their time management skills:

1. “Time Management Mastery: Do More, Stress Less” on Udemy. This course provides practical guidance on how to manage time effectively. It covers topics such as goal setting, prioritization, and time blocking, helping project managers to become more productive and efficient.
2. “Getting Things Done (GTD) Training” on Udemy. This course is based on the book “Getting Things Done” by David Allen. It provides a framework for organizing tasks, setting priorities, and managing time, helping project managers to become more productive and efficient.
3. “Foundations of Time Management” on Coursera. This course covers the fundamentals of time management, including goal setting, prioritization, and time blocking. It provides practical tools and techniques for managing time effectively, helping project managers to become more productive and efficient.

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26. Adaptability Skills

Adaptability is a critical skill for project managers in today’s fast-paced and dynamic business environment. To be adaptable means:

• Flexibility in handling changes and uncertainty
• Openness to feedback and constructive criticism
• Willingness to take risks and explore new approaches
• Ability to prioritize and reprioritize tasks as needed
• Creative problem-solving skills
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

How Improve Your Adaptability Skills

To develop adaptability skills, project managers can focus on building resilience, flexibility, and the ability to handle change effectively. Here are three book references that can be helpful in this regard:

1. “Adaptability: The Art of Winning In An Age of Uncertainty” by Max McKeown This book provides a practical guide to developing adaptability skills in the face of an ever-changing business landscape.
2. “The Agility Shift: Creating Agile and Effective Leaders, Teams, and Organizations” by Pamela Meyer This book helps readers understand how to cultivate adaptability as a core competency and make it a part of the organization’s DNA.
3. “The Leadership Gap: What Gets Between You and Your Greatness” by Lolly Daskal. This book focuses on how to lead through change by building adaptability skills in oneself and the team.

In terms of online courses, here are three options:

1. “Adaptability: How to Survive Change You Didn’t Ask For” on Udemy This course focuses on developing a mindset of adaptability and resilience in the face of unexpected change.
2. “Leading Through Change” on Coursera This course provides practical strategies for leading teams through change and building adaptability skills in oneself and others.
3. “Becoming an Agile Leader” on Udemy This course focuses on developing the skills needed to lead agile teams and organizations, including adaptability and flexibility.

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27. Creativity

Creativity is a crucial skill for project managers to have, and it enables them to approach problems and challenges innovatively. Here are some key points to consider about creativity in project management:

Firstly, creative thinking involves looking at problems and situations from various perspectives to generate new and innovative solutions.

Moreover, it is essential for project managers to be creative because it helps them develop unique solutions to complex problems, identify new opportunities, and improve processes and workflows.

Lastly, creative thinking also enables project managers to be more agile and adaptable, which is crucial in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing business environment.

How Improve Your Creativity Skills

Developing your creativity skills as a project manager can help you become more innovative, adaptable, and successful in your role. Here are some tips to improve your creativity skills:

• Practice brainstorming techniques such as mind mapping, free writing, and idea generation to develop new and innovative solutions to problems.
• Embrace new ideas and approaches by seeking out diverse perspectives and challenging your assumptions about the way things should be done.
• Experiment with new tools and technologies to find new ways of working and managing projects.

Some resources that can help you develop your creativity skills include:

• “The Creativity Challenge” by Tanner Christensen: This book provides practical exercises and strategies to help you develop your creativity skills and overcome common creative blocks.
• “Creative Confidence” by Tom Kelley and David Kelley: This book provides insights and inspiration for developing your creative confidence and unleashing your creative potential.
• “Design Thinking for Innovation” course on Coursera: This course teaches design thinking principles and techniques for solving complex problems and developing innovative solutions.

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28. Influence and persuasion

Being creative in influence and persuasion involves finding unique ways to persuade others to support your ideas or projects. It requires thinking outside the box and being able to adapt your approach based on your audience and the situation. Here are some key points to consider when it comes to creativity in influence and persuasion:

Firstly, creativity can help you stand out among others. When everyone is using the same tactics to persuade, being creative can help you capture people’s attention and set yourself apart. This can be especially useful when trying to win over stakeholders who are bombarded with pitches on a regular basis.

Secondly, different people respond to different approaches. What works for one person may not work for another. By being creative, you can try different approaches to see what resonates with your audience. This can help you tailor your messaging and ultimately improve your success rate.

Thirdly, being creative can help you anticipate objections. When you’re trying to influence others, it’s important to anticipate objections and be prepared to address them. By thinking creatively, you may be able to come up with solutions or responses that others haven’t thought of yet. This can give you an advantage in persuading others to support your ideas or projects.

How Improve Your Influence and Persuasion Skills

To develop influence and persuasion skills in project management, there are several books that project managers can consider reading:

1. “Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion” by Robert Cialdini
2. “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie
3. “Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High” by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler

In addition to these books, there are several online courses available on platforms like Udemy and Coursera that can help project managers develop their influence and persuasion skills. Here are three options:

1. “Influence and Persuasion for Project Managers” on Udemy
2. “Mastering Influence and Persuasion” on Coursera
3. “Effective Communication: Writing, Design, and Presentation” on Coursera

By reading these books and taking these courses, project managers can learn strategies for effectively communicating their ideas and influencing others in order to achieve project success.

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29. Coaching and mentoring

Coaching and mentoring are essential skills for project managers to develop their teams and individuals, enhance performance, and drive success. Here are some key points about coaching and mentoring in project management:

• Coaching is a process that involves guiding and facilitating individuals or teams to achieve their goals and improve their performance. It is a collaborative process that focuses on developing skills, enhancing knowledge, and unlocking potential.
• Mentoring involves a more experienced person sharing their knowledge, skills, and expertise with a less experienced person. The mentor provides guidance, support, and advice to help the mentee achieve their goals and progress in their career.
• Coaching and mentoring in project management are essential for developing effective teams, enhancing performance, and delivering successful projects. It helps project managers to identify and develop the potential of their team members, enhance their skills and knowledge, and improve their performance.

How To Improve Your Coaching and Mentoring Skills

To develop coaching and mentoring skills in project management, there are several steps that project managers can take.

Firstly, they can start by learning the fundamental concepts and techniques of coaching and mentoring. Then, they can apply these concepts and techniques to the context of project management. To assist in this process, there are several resources that can be helpful, including:

1. “Coaching for Performance: GROWing Human Potential and Purpose” by John Whitmore. This book is a classic in the field of coaching and provides a comprehensive framework for coaching individuals to improve performance and achieve their potential.
2. “The Art of Mentoring: Lead, Follow and Get Out of the Way” by Shirley Peddy. This book offers practical guidance on how to develop effective mentoring relationships, establish clear goals and expectations, and create a supportive learning environment.
3. “The Coaching Habit: Say Less, Ask More & Change the Way You Lead Forever” by Michael Bungay Stanier. This book offers a simple but powerful coaching framework that focuses on asking questions that can help individuals solve their own problems and develop their own solutions.

Some courses on Udemy or Coursera that can help project managers develop coaching and mentoring skills are:

1. “Coaching and Mentoring for Leadership Development” by University of California, Irvine on Coursera.
2. “The Complete Coaching and Mentoring Course” by Udemy.
3. “Effective Coaching and Mentoring: Practical Techniques for Developing Talent” by Skillsoft on Udemy.

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30. Negotiation

Negotiation is a crucial aspect of project management, as it involves coming to an agreement or compromise with stakeholders, vendors, or team members. Improving your negotiation skills can make the difference between project success and failure, and they are essential in achieving project goals. Effective negotiation requires preparation, clear communication, and the ability to reach a mutually beneficial outcome. Some key concepts related to negotiation in project management include:

• Understanding the needs and goals of all parties involved
• Identifying common ground and areas of compromise
• Finding creative solutions to problems
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders

How To Improve Your Negotiation Skills

To develop their ability to plan and manage negotiation skills in projects effectively, project managers can read the following three books:

1. “Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In” by Roger Fisher, William Ury, and Bruce Patton. This book teaches a method for negotiating that is based on mutual gains, rather than adversarial approaches.
2. “Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It” by Chris Voss. This book is written by a former FBI hostage negotiator and offers a practical guide to negotiation based on real-life experiences.
3. “Negotiation Genius: How to Overcome Obstacles and Achieve Brilliant Results at the Bargaining Table and Beyond” by Deepak Malhotra and Max Bazerman. This book provides insights into the psychology of negotiation and offers a framework for developing negotiation strategies.

As for courses on Udemy or Coursera, here are three suggestions:

1. “Negotiation Fundamentals” on Udemy, taught by Chris Croft. This course covers the basics of negotiation, including how to prepare, how to build rapport, and how to close a deal.
2. “The Art of Negotiation” on Coursera, offered by the University of California, Irvine. This course covers various negotiation strategies and tactics and offers practical exercises for applying them in real-world situations.
3. “Successful Negotiation: Essential Strategies and Skills” on Coursera, offered by the University of Michigan. This course covers negotiation theory and provides strategies for both distributive and integrative bargaining.

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What Do You Think?

Is it possible that getting a job as a project manager is becoming increasingly difficult? Simply knowing the necessary skills for a project management professional may no longer be enough.

Certainly, knowledge is important, and having the right tools is critical, but the ability to apply the appropriate techniques to our projects is vital.

Understanding project management theory without the ability to apply it is pointless, and having the right tools without practical project management abilities is meaningless.

So, how can you improve your project management skills? Begin by making a personal list of the abilities you lack. Include technical skills you want to acquire as well as soft skills that you could develop more.

Use your list as a roadmap for improving your project management competencies. Attend conferences, learn from your colleagues, and take courses.

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