Question

There are many structural and organizational guidelines to work with in the field of project management. All of them have sample documents, practical guidelines, and/or best practices to emulate. What’s not well documented is how each person can be a strong project manager and what are the soft skills necessary for them to be successful. Three of these soft skills are: Understanding the importance of power, understanding your own emotional intelligence, and lastly, being keenly aware of your individual bias. Project managers need to be keenly aware of heuristics (mental disposition) as well as biases (personal inclination) and how each influence PM’s decision-making. These very human variables can dramatically add to the success of a PM as well as their projects. Below are 3 articles for you to read, synthesize and write something personal about your understanding of and appreciation for heuristics, individual bias, and the importance of power. Please

Answer 1

Project managers must navigate a myriad of soft skills including handling their heuristics and biases, understanding power dynamics within organizations, and maintaining a growth mindset. Building a positive relationship with managers and employing a strengths-based management style can help in achieving career satisfaction and advancement.

Step-by-step explanation:

Heuristics, Individual Bias, and the Importance of Power in Project Management

In project management, soft skills are as critical as technical skills. One must have an understanding of social systems and large bureaucracies, the ability to collect, analyze, and interpret data, as well as the capacity to recognize and accommodate diverse social, cultural, and economic backgrounds.

Understanding and effectively managing heuristics and individual bias play a significant role in decision-making and can influence the outcome of projects. Being aware of one's mental heuristics, or mental shortcuts, and personal biases can aid in making more balanced and fair decisions.

Appreciating the importance of power is integral for a project manager. The power dynamics within an organization, especially the influence of managers, can significantly impact career growth and job satisfaction.

Managers not only play a critical role in skill development and providing opportunities but also in setting a tone that influences an employee's approach to work. Positive interactions with management can lead to a more fulfilling work experience and further opportunities for growth.

Developing a positive mindset and organizational savvy is essential for success. Proactivity, initiative, and the development of a growth mindset contribute to professional development.

Seeking to understand your manager's priorities and pressures, observing their strengths and weaknesses, and finding ways to align your work with their goals can foster a mutually productive relationship, crucial for career advancement.

To be an effective project manager, it's necessary to be vigilant about personal heuristics and biases, understand the power dynamics within organizations, and employ a strengths-based management approach while maintaining a positive and adaptable mindset.