Happy Tuesday subscribers! Safiyyah Abinet here, your guide to another exciting edition of The Tuesday Leader!
In today's special installment, we're turning the spotlight onto none other than our incredible Founder and CEO, Rachel Wells. I'm thrilled to be your host as Rachel takes us on a journey through her experiences as a project manager. She's about to share a career-defining moment that taught her a valuable lesson – that the secret to success in project management involves a strategic blend of adaptability, creativity, and gratitude.
Grab your favorite beverage, get comfy, and let's get stuck into this week's edition...
"One of the most exhilarating chapters of my project management career was the time I spearheaded the Talent To Teach In FE programme. Trust me; it was a rollercoaster of challenges, victories, mingled with the sweet taste of success.
"If you know me at all, you're aware that my heart beats a little faster when it comes to professional development and training, especially for adult learners. That's probably why I find myself donning the hat of a coach.
"Come with me: 360 students, scattered across the nation, including a handful of seasoned professionals, all embarking on a journey to kickstart new careers in the further education industry. The stakes were high, and the pressure was on. The deadlines, initially laid out by the stakeholders, took an unexpected detour thanks to a sudden shift in funding priorities.
"Can you imagine having to complete the project and hit those Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in almost half the time? Talk about a curveball! This is where I discovered the true essence of adaptability in the life of a project manager. It was time to get creative, to think fast on my feet.
"I decided to take a unique approach to motivate my project team and ensure we stayed on track, even with the clock ticking away faster than ever. Motivation was the key, and I sprinkled it generously through regular check-ins, informal updates, and, perhaps most crucially, by publicly and privately expressing gratitude for my incredible team's efforts.
I realized the importance of not just pushing my team but actively appreciating their hard work
"When it comes to project management, the ground beneath your feet is always shifting, so you need to be ready to think outside the box. I realized the importance of not just pushing my team but actively appreciating their hard work. It's the secret to keeping everyone engaged until the final curtain falls on the project.
"And guess what? Our little experiment worked like a charm. Not only did we hit the desired outcome, but we also exceeded our KPIs, garnishing the achievement with a heap of overwhelmingly positive feedback! It was a victory for adaptability, creativity, and a generous sprinkle of gratitude."
When faced with unexpected challenges, such as shifting deadlines due to funding priorities, Rachel not only successfully handled the challenges but excelled in overcoming them. Here's a breakdown of the key takeaways:
Adaptability is Non-Negotiable
Rachel discovered that adaptability isn't just a desirable trait; it's a vital skill for project managers. The ability to pivot and adjust strategies on the fly in response to unexpected shifts, challenges, or tight timelines is what separates successful project managers from the rest.
Creativity Breeds Solutions
When traditional approaches hit roadblocks and time became a pressing constraint, Rachel embraced creativity. Thinking outside the box and encouraging her team to contribute innovative ideas became integral to overcoming challenges. Creative problem-solving wasn't just a bonus—it was the key to surpassing project goals. Rachel's team became a culture of collaboration and open communication.
Gratitude is a Powerhouse Motivator
In the midst of tight deadlines, Rachel recognized the importance of expressing gratitude. Acknowledging and appreciating her team's efforts, both publicly and privately, became a game-changer. Rachel's deliberate act of gratitude not only boosted morale but also instilled a sense of pride and accomplishment within her team members. The positive work environment created by acknowledging their efforts fueled a collaborative spirit, prompting team members to go above and beyond their individual roles. This strengthened bond not only propelled them towards success but also established a lasting foundation of camaraderie and mutual respect among the team.
Comfort Zones are Project Management Killers
Rachel emphasized the dangers of getting too comfortable in the project management chair. Projects are dynamic, and complacency can hinder progress. Embracing challenges, seeking growth opportunities, and encouraging the team to step out of their comfort zones became crucial for long-term success.
How can you actively incorporate these principles into your own project management approach? Consider the specific actions you can take to resist comfort, foster a dynamic mindset, and lead your team towards embracing challenges and growth opportunities. How will you rise to the occasion and make adaptability, creativity, and gratitude integral components of your leadership style?
Until next time, embrace the power of productivity hacks and watch your project management skills soar!
Best regards,
Safiyyah Abinet
RWC's Marketing Director and Curator of The Tuesday Leader
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As a corporate coach, RWC's Founder and CEO, Rachel Wells, has had the privilege of mentoring and coaching numerous managers throughout her career. From recruitment to tech, non-profits to education, and even hospitality. she has seen first-hand the transformative power of effective leadership. Seven of her own employees were promoted and progressed to other roles internally as a result of her coaching leadership approach. Imagine the incredible possibilities that await your organization when you fully leverage your existing talent. If you're ready to witness transformational results and take your business to new heights, join forces with Rachel. There are are a few ways that she can help you:
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