Every certified project manager has a credential from PMI but it is the truly successful ones who understand the importance of leadership in project management. True, a project manager’s experience, and familiarity with technical issues is undeniably critical, but a project manager without true leadership skills is bound to falter.

The tie between leadership and project management is a natural one. However the difference between a project management leader and another corporate leader is the close, personal, tie to the plan and the result. While a CEO may lead departments of hundreds of people, he/she may never personally work with any of them or be directly responsible for the output of their team, sticking to the schedule, or achieving a desirable outcome on budget. They deal with the result: the success or failure. However, a project manager is directly responsible for results because it is their job. They must work quite closely and develop quality working relationships with their team to improve their productivity. Project managers are held directly accountable for results. That’s leadership on a very personal level.

So do you have what it takes to be not only a project manager, but a leader of your team for your project? Here is a checklist of qualities to consider as a self-examination. Where do you excel? Where do you need to improve?

1. Stellar Communication Skills

As a project manager, you must relate to the CEO as well as the customer service trainee. Often this involves adjusting your language, tone, and even, on occasion, your attitude.

2. Positivity

As the leader of the project you must always have your sunny side up. Good leaders, especially in a project management role, don’t give up easily and see the cup half full instead of half empty. They display confidence in front of the team and model a positive attitude. They make an impact, which in turn, helps the team feel confident.

3. Integrity

Nobody succeeds alone. Do you tend to take credit yourself instead of giving it to the team? Show the team your integrity by offering praise, gratitude, and giving credit where it’s due.

4. Team-Focused Personality

This should go without saying but truthfully, learning how team-focused you really are is something you discover through experience. To lead a team,it is critical to be a team player. There are many people (I have some in my life) that make you feel like you are their number one priority. They draw you in and make you feel special. If you can  sincerely demonstrate to the team that you care about each one of them individually, i.e., asking them how their weekend was or showing interest in their hobbies, you will go far in building their teamwork when you need it most.

5. Decisive

Project managers cannot be wishy washy. They need to make scores of decisions every day and they can’t be afraid of making a mistake. Making mistakes leads to growth, and usually, a better project manager. Project managers are also the ones who decide whether: a) the project moves ahead, b) it’s time to pull the plug, c) the snag must be escalated to another level for a decision or d) a new plan is called for. Every decision must lead to a result that keeps the team focused on the goal.

Now that you know the Top Five Characteristics for Leadership in Project Management, how do you rate your leadership skills? Remember that time, experience, and education can always help you develop into a better leader. For resources on how to achieve this, feel free to contact me at jeannette@lurdezconsulting.org.