Leadership and influence are two of the most critical skills in project management. They are intertwined and often go hand-in-hand. A project manager’s effectiveness often hinges on their ability to lead their team and influence stakeholders. Let’s delve deeper into these skills:

  1. Leadership: Leadership is not just about being in charge but guiding a team toward achieving a common goal.
    • Visionary Leadership: A great leader clearly shows the end goal and motivates the team to work towards it. They communicate the project’s purpose and its significance.
    • Empathy: Understanding team members’ concerns, aspirations, and challenges is crucial. Empathetic leaders foster a positive work environment where team members feel valued and understood.
    • Decision Making: Leaders are often faced with tough decisions. They must weigh the pros and cons and make decisions that benefit the project, even if they are unpopular.
    • Accountability: A leader takes responsibility for the team’s good and bad actions. This builds trust and sets a standard for the team.
  1. Influencing: Influencing is about persuading others to see things from your perspective and getting them on board with your ideas.
    • Persuasion: This is not about manipulating but presenting arguments in a way others can understand and appreciate. It’s about making others see the benefits of a particular course of action.
    • Articulation: Clearly expressing thoughts, ideas, and plans is essential. A well-articulated argument can sway opinions and facilitate understanding.
    • Active Listening: Influencing isn’t just about talking; it’s about listening. By understanding others’ concerns and viewpoints, a project manager can address them effectively.
    • Negotiation: Project managers often find themselves in situations where they must negotiate resources, timelines, or priorities. Effective negotiation skills ensure that all parties feel they’ve achieved a favorable outcome.
    • Building Relationships: Building and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders, team members, and other departments can significantly enhance a project manager’s influence. People are more likely to support those they trust and respect.
  1. Balancing Leadership and Influencing: While leadership is about guiding and motivating a team, influencing is gaining support from others outside the team. A project manager needs to strike a balance:
    • Internal Leadership involves motivating the team, addressing concerns, and ensuring everyone is aligned with the project’s goals.
    • External Influencing involves persuading stakeholders, securing resources, and navigating organizational politics to ensure the project’s success.

In conclusion, while technical skills are vital in project management, the human aspect cannot be overlooked. Leadership and influencing skills are paramount in navigating the complex web of human interactions, ensuring smoother project execution, and achieving desired outcomes. Continuous self-improvement, training, and real-world experience can help project managers refine these skills.