10 Unbreakable Rules for Project Success (Part 2)

 

As our two-part series concludes, we take a look at the next half of the 10 Unbreakable Rules for Project Success (to read Part 1, click here).

Rule No. 6: Know how to communicate.

It is imperative to know how to communicate effectively, whether it is written, verbal, visual, body language or the like. It may be better to know that assumptions run wild on project teams, and assumptions foster perceptions, and perceptions create an errant reality. This is what will challenge your communication skills. Since teams are comprised of individuals--all with unique thinking capacities--you must be able to communicate to a diverse group of folks with differing perceptions, beliefs and cares. To best communicate, do so in detail and be colorful. That is, quantify your statements and use examples and stories when possible. And make sure your statements are based in fact.

To keep the team informed of project work underway and forthcoming events, sponsor regular project meetings and share regular project status reports and/or scorecards. Remember, projects do not always remain on course. To that end, not all communication is favorable. If bad things happen, communicate the bad and reinforce the risk/issue mitigation plan that is in place. Do not shy away from any needed communication, but know when to stop talking and get back to acting upon the information just shared.

Rule No…

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