New Year's Resolutions for Project Managers

TL;DR

Project managers should avoid pointless arguments, be generous with their help, aim to leave a positive impact, go to the gemba (where work happens), broaden and deepen their knowledge, and handle problems by whispering instead of blaming.

Transcript

in my previous video I looked at the 12 things I want for Christmas but it's the new year it's 2020 Happy New Year and so in this video I want to give you my 6 suggested New Year's resolutions for project managers resolution number one is not to get into any pointless fruitless valueless time-wasting arguments particularly this or that option argum... Read More

Key Insights

• 👋 Pointless arguments about which project management option is better should be avoided, as the focus should be on combining different options for the best solution.
• 📽️ Being generous with help and guidance, without expecting anything in return, can make both project managers and those around them better.
• 🥺 Striving to leave a positive impact on the world and dedicating time to personal growth can lead to personal and professional fulfillment.
• 🤪 Going to the gemba allows project managers to understand and resolve issues by directly engaging with the people involved.
• 📽️ Embracing the concept of being a "t-shaped" professional can lead to a broader understanding and expertise, enabling project managers to provide valuable insights.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why are pointless arguments considered time-wasting for project managers?

Pointless arguments about which option or approach is better ignore the subtleties and nuances that lie between extremes, and assume that one option must be better while negating the value of others. It is more productive to focus on how to get the best out of all available options and combine them for the right solution.

Q: How can project managers make a contribution to the world around them?

Project managers can make a contribution by dedicating time each day to either learning something new or actively contributing their knowledge and skills. It can be as simple as volunteering, mentoring, or sharing insights and ideas with others.

Q: Why is it important for project managers to go to the gemba?

Going to the "gemba" (where work happens) allows project managers to gain first-hand experience and understanding of the issues faced by the project team. By speaking with the people involved, project managers can better identify the root causes of problems and lead the process of resolving them.

Q: How can project managers become "t-shaped" professionals?

To become a "t-shaped" professional, project managers should broaden their knowledge by learning about different sectors and disciplines. They should also deepen their expertise by acquiring in-depth knowledge and insights in their specific area of focus. This combination of breadth and depth enables project managers to provide valuable contributions and insights.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Resolution #1: Avoid getting into pointless arguments about which project management option is better, and instead focus on combining different options for the best solution.

• Resolution #2: Be generous with help, advice, and support without expecting anything in return, making both yourself and others better in the process.

• Resolution #3: Strive to make a contribution to the world every day while also dedicating time to personal growth.

• Resolution #4: Don't stay behind a desk, but actively go to the gemba to understand and resolve issues on the ground.

• Resolution #5: Embrace the concept of being a "t-shaped" professional, with both broad knowledge and deep expertise.

• Resolution #6: When things go wrong, avoid blaming, making excuses, or holding grudges. Instead, approach problems with a solution-oriented mindset.