Managing a project is like preparing a meal. Just about anyone can get food on the table. But pulling off a five-course meal for a large group of guests is another story. If you really want it to be a success, you’ll turn to a professional.
The same goes for projects. Anyone with a minimum of organisational skills can see a project through. But when the project gets more complex, you can increase your chances of success – and reduce your chances of getting an ulcer – by handing it to a professional project manager.
A project manager stands out for three key skills:
1. Manages projects on a frequent basis
Have you ever watched a professional chef and an amateur chef prepare a meal side by side? While both may end up with a perfect dish in the end, the pro will have a much easier go of it. The same applies to project management. Managing a project professionally is both a profession and an art.
2. Communicates with transparency
Imagine that your partner is cooking up a delicious meal for you. To surprise you, he leaves you completely in the dark about what you’ll be eating, from the starter to dessert…when you suddenly discover there is no dessert. A professional project manager knows that transparent communication throughout the project is the key to avoiding unpleasant surprises at the end.
3. Adopts a pragmatic approach
An overly optimistic amateur chef may be overcome with enthusiasm and leave your sweet tooth unsatisfied. A professional chef knows how to measure out their resources and time to ensure that every course is fantastic. It’s no different for a professional project manager, who will not commit to delivering more than is possible for your budget and deadlines. Convinced? Avoid unpleasant surprises and entrust your important projects to a professional project manager!
What about you ? Do you have similar or different experiences? Let me know, I'll be happy to discuss it with you!
Artwork : Mélanie Bénard Tremblay,2017, © Marakoudja.