Could you successfully manage a project? Project management is an important part of many senior roles. Project management skills are crucial for ensuring projects remain on track, maintain maximum productivity and achieve their desired goals. So, what are the top project management skills? How can you improve your project management skills?
Top project management skills
According to Seek and Indeed these are the top skills required for project management.
Budgeting
Managing expenses is a key part of many projects. Project Managers have to decide how much money can be spent on each element of a project, according to the allocated funds.
Attention to detail
Sometimes the small details of a project are important. By paying attention to the finer details, you can help stop problems from emerging later on.
Critical thinking
Decisions should be thought through, with various factors considered. Therefore, time should be taken before making important decisions.
Ability to work independently
To successfully manage projects you must be able to work autonomously.
Risk management
Are there any threats to the project being completed on time?
Organisation
Organisation can help to reduce stress. Use software to keep track of how projects are going. Set up easy storage systems for files, documents and assets.
Time management
Be aware of how long tasks take to complete. You should prioritise the most important tasks and complete them first. Where possible, keep to your deadlines and avoid distractions.
Problem-solving
It is inevitable you will encounter problems when managing projects. For example, the project may run over budget or be running behind schedule. What is important is that you are able to solve them.
Leadership skills
Project Managers are required to inspire and motivate others. They should provide feedback to others and delegate tasks when appropriate.
How to improve your project management skills
Indeed and Seek provide tips on how to improve your project management skills.
Ask for feedback
Asking for feedback is an excellent way to identify areas for improvement and begin developing these skills.
Develop your communication skills
Good project management requires effective communication between team members. Team members should listen to the concerns of others and take these on board.
Understand your leadership style
What are your leadership tendencies? Determining these can help you work out what your leadership strengths are and what skills you need to work on
Be adaptable
If things don’t go as planned, come up with a solution as quickly as possible. Sometimes you may need to find a different way to achieve your goals.
Make sure everyone is on the same page
You will often work with people who have different opinions, interests, and ideas. To achieve the project’s goals, you must ensure everyone is on the same page. Therefore, you must be able to manage team members’ competing priorities.
Track your time
Tracking the time it takes to complete a task helps you ensure that the project remains on track.
Use templates and software tools
There are various online templates which can help you to manage projects. These can easily be customised to suit your individual project.
There are also a range of project management software tools which can help you keep your project on track and communicate with team members.
Are you looking to advance your career? Public Service Resumes can help. We are pleased to offer services for professionals of all levels including executive and senior executive.