Project Management Tip: Share before they care
Often the way a Project Manager communicates can be very functional; we share the facts, this is what’s happened, this is what will happen, these are risks, actions etc..
A good example of this is a status report. They’re valuable and effective but can get repetitive because they miss that personal touch following a pre-defined structure.
The share before they care approach isn't meant to replace the standard status report but supplement it with a more personal touch directly to your primary client or whoever needs it.
It’s also a 121 approach as you need to think about what the recipient really needs to know, what will help them, or put their mind at ease and ultimately increase their confidence in you and show that you care.
Also, think about what they are not expecting, what will surprise them and make them notice that you’re thinking differently, care more and will improve the relationship you have with them.
What are the benefits of doing this?
- The client's respect and appreciation for you will increase.
- Because you’re thinking differently, you stand out from those around you.
- For only a small amount of effort, in the clients eyes, you’re going above and beyond and then when you do a problem, they’re more likely to help.
But remember it's an ad-hoc approach for when it's really needed, so don't over use it, as it will lose its impact and then start to compete with the status report, and neither will win.
Productivity Tip: The Rule of 3
The rule of 3 is an easy and effective approach to skyrocket productivity and eliminate time wasted on unimportant tasks.
It’s as simple as setting three critical goals or outcomes each day, month, and year and prioritising them above all else.
With this laser-sharp focus, you’ll be able to concentrate only on what truly matters and avoid getting sidetracked by less significant tasks.
This method also streamlines your day, month, or year, keeping you on track and preventing procrastination.
It’s the perfect tool for those easily distracted by new and shiny things that divert their attention from what’s essential for you now and in the long term.
Taking a more manageable task or a task that will give you short-term satisfaction over tasks that will give you greater reward in the long term, is much easier to do.
Using the rule of 3 will keep you focused on what’s important to you now and in the future.
Also, once you’ve done all three, you can always do more!
Until we can manage time, we can manage nothing else - Peter Drucker
