Project managers play the lead role in planning, executing, monitoring, controlling, and closing out projects. They are accountable for the entire project scope, the project team and resources, the project budget, and the success or failure of the project. Project managers are the ones who hold the team together, making sure everyone on the team is on the same page. 

Though every project manager may know how to execute projects on time and on budget, only truly great project leaders will go above and beyond. Here are some of the traits of a good project manager:- 

• Effective Communication Skills 

Communication plays a significant role in managing projects, teams, and other stakeholders. It doesn't just mean being a stellar facilitator, speaker, or writer; it requires good listening skills. A good leader should not only actively listen to what is and is not being said. Listening to different views from others and taking into account their experiences and knowledge helps to reduce potential conflict and risks due to blind spots and increases the likelihood of project success.  

• A Well-Respected Leader 

An effective leader must be able to effectively lead their team from start to finish to ensure the efficient completion of a project. Being a well respected leader usually means that you are able to motivate your team to perform at their best throughout the project and ensure all team members have a clear understanding of what is expected of them. As the saying goes; respect is earned not given, it is essential to earn the respect of your team through leading by example. 

• An Agent Of Change 

As changes are inevitable, project managers need to understand, embrace it, and build elements of uncertainty into their project plans. It is essential that a project manager keeps calm at all times and be consistently grounded so as not to lose themselves and adversely affect the relationship and dynamic with the team. Therefore a good project manager should always be ready to accept and adapt to changes towards the project. 

• Have Integrity And Accountability 

Though mistakes are to be expected, what is more important is to accept when you are wrong and to learn from them. Being accountable to your decisions shows great leadership as it sets a good example for your team and makes them more likely to follow that example. Integrity additionally fosters a culture of trust within your team and promotes an ethical and responsible work environment. 

• Generous With Credit To Others 

Being able to delegate and oversee tasks is a fundamental component of successful project management. Rather than trying to be a jack of all trades, a successful project manager leverages the knowledge and skills on the team. Therefore, it is essential to share the credit for a work well done and encourage all members to participate and contribute at their highest levels which would lead to the project’s success. 

Here we have Adriana Girdler; the president of CornerStone Dynamics, who is also a Project Management Professional (PMP) for over 20 years. She will be explaining 5 tips on how to be a great project manager.