I am new to project management, just been promoted to PM. I have worked with website development,application development projects but there I was team lead earlier then project lead for one project. But as PM I am responsible for all projects(6-7) going in my department.
How to keep pace with work, all projects, on going technology,improve your skills,read books-whitepapers,join in communities to discuss problem too much to do.. How you guys to do all this !!
Please guide me also this pool is too big for me right now, and I also want to cross it nicely like you. Saving Changes...
Business today expect more from PM's, the expectation is to manage multiple projects concurrently, however, it will depend on the type of project as each project is different in size [small, medium, large] complexities and priorities and whether the projects are in fact manageable without compromising one over the other that can lead into problems. Many projects fail due to project overload, the more you take the less effective a PM you will be. Learn to say NO and recognise when enough is enough otherwise you will more than risk damaging your reputation. Having said that, there are some things you can do:
Avoid taking shortcuts so to enable you to take more projects!
You can delegate some aspects of projects to subordinates\project support
Prioritise in terms of importance and delivery dates
Most important invest time managing stakeholder expectations
Good luck Saving Changes...
Hans RobbersSenior Director| SalesforceVlissingen, Netherlands
Hi
I do agree with Vasoula. manage your environment set the expectations in terms of scope and timelines.
A good book to read is Herding chickens by Dan Bradbary and David Garret.
Hi Vasoula.. Thanks for those words. I agree, some time enough is really enough but as I said I am new for this role and to company also they have lots of expectations too.
My day has become bit complex ..I am putting up 12hr shift now a days at work, then need 6hr sleep too and left with 6hrs - need to cope with lots of things. This technology is running with high pace, dont understand what to read and what not to. I search one article/topic on google get 10000of links, all are good.. all are renowed how I can read them.
All I am trying to say, I need to understand "be on Top @work, @technology know-how and @business environment" ...how!! Saving Changes...
It sounds that your projects need to be managed within a controlled environment one clue is that you said 'this technology is running with high pace' you are putting 12h shift, this is not good. I will email you. .
Vasoula Saving Changes...
Hans RobbersSenior Director| SalesforceVlissingen, Netherlands
Donna,
I suggest to start with a good night sleep and take things as they come. The trick is to have management say NO for you.
One of things I used in the past is have an action list of exactly one A4 long. Only one A4 since you must be able to see which tasks you have to give attention to. When the A4 is full and management comes with a new task show them your list and ask them to remove one of the burdens for te new one or to wait.
Set priorities and feel free to say NO
I suggest you e-mail Vasoula and me and let see how we can get you out of the water.
Do not hesitate to mail
Hans Saving Changes...
Josh NankivelEngineering Project Manager| AppleSioux Falls, Sd, United States
Wonderful question. I set up my blog pmStudent to answer these questions and help new and aspiring project managers reach their career goals. Then I started my training program to provide even more guidance and resources.
I'm attaching a copy of my ebook "Getting Started in Project Management" for your reference.
I second the thoughts of delegation. This is a very demanding role and at times you will feel like the cloth between the scissors. Delegation will help you get out some of the low priority tasks taken care of while you handle the big ones.
As another user mentioned, keep a running tasks list, prioritize that list and update it every morning at the start of work. Think of this as a shopping list, whereas you will not want to go shopping without a list.
Maintain a flexible project schedule and get your team involved. Make sure to work as a team and do not alienate yourself.
Keep everyone informed.
With all of the little nuggets of advice on this board and at least 7 hours of sleep nightly, a good daily breakfast with coffee, you will be just fine. Saving Changes...
I really like all what has been said i would like to add something i would consider it very important as you have said that you have been promoted to the PM;
you have a very big tasks to take care before considering your self PM it means management in all aspects. Know your souroundings, start with networking, test your personal skills, check your high limits.....etcs. Saving Changes...
