My background in IT project management is quite extensive, having spent the last 20+ years successfully delivering projects and programs for a large range of clients, across various industries. While it has been crucial to have the right level of technical skills, possessing the right soft skills is of equal, if not of more importance in successful delivery.
These often-overlooked capabilities are the glue that holds project teams together and can be used to benefit any team situation. In fact, I believe they are critical for successfully managing any business – in any capacity.
Communication
Effective communication is the cornerstone of successful management. Manager and leaders must be able to articulate complex concepts in a manner that is understandable to non-technical stakeholders. This involves active listening, clear and concise messaging, and the ability to tailor communication styles to different audiences.
My Tip: Regularly engage with your team and stakeholders through various channels—meetings, emails, and collaborative tools. Ensure everyone is on the same page and encourage open dialogue.
Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence (EI) refers to the ability to understand and manage your own emotions, as well as those of others. High EI helps leaders navigate team dynamics, handle stress, and resolve conflicts effectively.
My Tip: Practice empathy by actively listening to your team’s concerns and acknowledging their feelings. Develop self-awareness by reflecting on your emotional responses and seeking feedback from others.
Leadership
Strong leadership goes beyond simply managing tasks—it’s about inspiring and motivating your team. Effective leaders create a vision, build trust, and empower team members to achieve their best.
My Tip: Lead by example and demonstrate integrity, reliability, and enthusiasm. Recognise and celebrate team achievements to boost morale and motivation.
Adaptability
The business landscape is constantly evolving, and leaders and managers must be able to adapt to change quickly. This involves being open to new ideas, adjusting plans as needed, and maintaining a positive attitude in the face of uncertainty.
My Tip: Foster a culture of flexibility within your team. Encourage innovation and be prepared to pivot when necessary to keep projects and operations on track.
Problem-Solving
Effective problem-solving skills enable project managers to identify issues early, analyse potential solutions, and implement the best course of action. This proactive approach minimises disruptions and keeps the business moving forward.
My Tip: Approach problems with a solution-oriented mindset. Involve your team in brainstorming sessions to leverage diverse perspectives and arrive at the best solutions.
Time Management
Time management is critical in ensuring that all deadlines are met and everything is delivered on schedule. This includes prioritising tasks, setting realistic deadlines, and managing workloads effectively.
My Tip: Use management tools to track progress and allocate resources efficiently. Regularly review timelines and adjust as needed to stay on target.
Decision Making
Effective decision-making is a vital skill for all leaders, as they are often faced with choices that can significantly impact business outcomes. Good decision-making involves evaluating all available information, considering the potential risks and benefits, and making timely choices.
My Tip: Develop a structured approach to decision-making by defining clear criteria and involving relevant stakeholders. Be decisive, yet flexible enough to adjust decisions as new information arises.
Conclusion
While technical skills are essential, the soft skills highlighted above are equally important in enhancing the success of your business. By cultivating these abilities, you can build stronger teams, foster better communication, and ultimately drive more successful outcomes. Remember, it’s not just about what you do, but how you do it that makes all the difference.
