Habits of Successful Project Managers

Project managers have a difficult assignment. Delivering results when the different project stakeholders - users, subordinates, team members, and senior managers – have conflicting agendas and goals is not easy. Under these circumstances, the best project managers still deliver results. How? By forming successful habits and having the discipline to execute tasks consistently. Here are several habits we’ve seen in successful project managers:

Successful PMs “frame” the project’s problems and solutions. Frames consist of the mental models, metaphors, and concepts through which an issue is viewed. Simply put, effective PMs examine issues through frames of reference that narrow and focus their attention, while keeping perspective. Frames break up the issue into manageable pieces. Frames also enable the sharing of information quickly. The key is the contextual reference frames provide. Without that context, it's difficult to assess the problem or solution.

Some PMs fail because they do not manage communication. The most effective PMs manage perceptions and expectations, distribute knowledge, and communicate to make sure the right people are involved on the right problems. They create forums and channels for communication and tailor the language for each audience – for example, to stakeholders the language is business value; they want to know timeframes, budget, and required resources. Effective PMs also use the correct communication medium for the message. They consider whether the message is best delivered in slides, mail, a meeting, over the phone, etc.

Finally, the most effective PMs execute project tasks consistently. They have well-organized work breakdown structures and excel in appointing the right resources to each task. Poor execution can result from work breakdown structures that are focused on activities versus outcomes. A well-defined work breakdown structure ensures that the PM understands the work to be done and can make accurate estimates. Top PMs know the system within which they operate. They know the company’s product cycle, software development life cycle, strategic milestones, and important influencers.

Certainly, this is not a comprehensive list of effective project management habits; however, it should be a good start. Framing the problem enables the PM to identify a manageable solution. However, to execute and deliver that solution, understanding the company’s process and capabilities is important, but the successful PM will also communicate effectively to connect team members and stakeholders to the project. By making these strategies a consistent part of one’s project management methodology – by forming these successful habits – the disciplined PM increases the likelihood of success in each project.