Are you a project leader or manager

You are the “Project Sponsor” for a big, mission critical project for your company. You’re the main contact for approval of tasks, budgets, and business requirements.

As a “Project Sponsor” are you a leader or manager?

Well, if you micro-manage the technology group (or your own business staff), the name of which represents your style is in the right there in the description. It is impossible for you to micro manage technology people when you do not have the technology skills. Remember your role…you are the project sponsor. That means you are there to “LEAD” both the business and technology team to achieve the goals of the project.

Leadership means:

• Clearly defining the objectives.
• Get people EMOTIONALLY involved in achieving the objectives.
• Rid any roadblocks that prevent anyone from achieving the objectives.
• Teach what you know. You don’t know technology but you do know the business. Or else, you know someone who knows the specifics of what the technologist needs to understand. Make the connection for the technologist.
• Be a coach. Again, not in the technology but in engaging. Business people have a better sense of how to engage people through relationships. Illustrate how to do this by setting a GREAT example. Engage the technologist. Coach them on the personal skills that you take for granted.
• Finally…be a leader: Encourage and inspire … is a continual process not a kick-off task.