Even though the IT Manager customer is hiring me as an external PM he is still thinking I am his employee and I must do every activity, not related to PM, he commands to me. I have talked to the Global Delivery Head customer and he has stopped the IT Manager but still he continues with his haughty and prepotent attitude. Saving Changes...
That's a tough spot to be in - I've been there a few times. One of the most effective ways I have found to scale back the demands is to have a one-on-one with my list of deliverables, and the project schedule. By pointing out that my specific, contractually-agreed work takes precedence due to the timeline and the fact that I am actually managing the project team and its work, I asked which of the items on my deliverables list could be dropped. Needless to say, none of them can be... I had to have the conversation a few times, but didn't need to escalate to an executive level. Manage the expectations, and good luck! Saving Changes...
Eric SimmsSenior Program ManagerBaltimore, Maryland, United States
I agree with Tracy. Unfortunately there's little you can do about this IT Manager's personality. At least the Global Delivery Head knows about the problem and appears to be on your side. The IT Manager might be angry that you thwarted him, and he might try to set you up for failure by telling you something he can later deny. I suggest that you be wary of him, especially if he begins to act friendly toward you. Protect yourself against possible retribution by using email to confirm anything he tells you verbally, and copy the Global Delivery Head or someone in a similar position as an extra cautionary measure. Saving Changes...
I really appreciate your feedback. It is very useful and it is a kindly way to make him to understand how things must be done, not on my benefit, but most importantly on the benefit of the project. These experiences help me to understand that the most difficult challenge a PM must face is not technology, neither processes, is people. That helps to enhance emotional intelligence. Really appreciate. Saving Changes...
Depending on the relationship you have with this manager, you might use it as an opportunity to educate him about it. If he's thinking it is just project administration, he might be more likely to continue to impose on your time...
