As a Senior Project Manager mentoring junior project managers, here are 5 practical and high-impact tips I share with mentees:
1. Start with Clarity, Not Control
đź“Ś Tip: Get clear on the project’s why—the objectives, success criteria, and stakeholders—before diving into the how.
🎯 Why it matters: Too many new PMs jump into task management without understanding the bigger picture. Clarity creates confidence—for you and your team.
2. Build Relationships Early
đź“Ś Tip: Take time to understand each stakeholder’s goals, pain points, and communication style.
🤝 Why it matters: Project success hinges on trust. Influence without authority is the name of the game, and relationships are your most valuable currency.
3. Manage the Plan, Not the People
📌 Tip: Your role is to create structure, remove blockers, and facilitate progress—not micromanage.
🛠️ Why it matters: Teams thrive when they’re empowered. Focus on keeping the roadmap clear and resources aligned. Let your team shine.
4. Track Risks, Not Just Tasks
📌 Tip: Always have a living risk register and revisit it weekly. Include mitigation strategies, even for the “unlikely” items.
⚠️ Why it matters: Great PMs don’t just respond—they anticipate. Risk management is your strategic advantage.
5. Learn to Communicate Up and Across
📌 Tip: Tailor your updates based on your audience—execs want outcomes, teams want clarity, stakeholders want relevance.
đź“Ł Why it matters: Communication is the hidden superpower of great PMs. Be clear, concise, and consistent.
đź“Ś Bonus Tip: Keep learning. Read, shadow others, and reflect on what works. Every project is a new lesson.
Mentorship is a two-way street, and I always learn something new from those I mentor. What’s a piece of advice that stuck with you early in your career?
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