Project Managers are often underused when it comes to the value they can provide in client conversations, new business, managing change, and being a leader within the company.
Provide them with the time and support they need to elevate your project standards and client relationships and don't ask them things like this
❌ Can you get me a quick estimate for tomorrow, please?
❌ It's okay; you don't need to attend that client briefing meeting. I'll let you know what they say.
❌ I've told the client we'll be able to share this a few days early; is that okay?
❌ Don't worry about the potential cost impact; we'll work on that later.
❌ We don't need written approval; it will definitely be okay.
❌ I've just borrowed your (add a role from your project team) for a few hours this morning; was that okay?
If you want to get the best out of your Project Manager and have fewer problems on your project, say this:
✅ We may have an upcoming opportunity to share a cost estimate. I've got a 121 catch-up with the client later. Are there any questions you would like me to ask?
✅ There's a client meeting tomorrow. Your presence is crucial as it will help you understand the client's needs and get the necessary information. This will save us from having another meeting. Can you share some times you could do it, and I'll arrange it?
✅ The client has asked for …….. a few days early. I said we'd look into it, but I need to speak to you and the team first to check what's possible before we can say yes or no.
✅ Can you provide me with the cost impact of this change? We need to know the effect on the margin, budget, plan, and team. Then, let's discuss how we communicate it.
✅ We have yet to get approval on that; what do you need to be able to proceed so you can?
✅ I need some design work to support some new business soon. Can I speak to the [add role] to understand how much time they need to do it? I'll check back with you after.
What would you add?
