Around the globe there are millions of project managers. And no matter what type of organization they’re working for or where they are located in, there is always one common characteristic shared among successful project managers they are always ready for action. Instead of waiting for an opportunity to come their way, they’re constantly on the lookout. They’re willing to act on instinct, without endlessly analyzing everything. They make mistakes but never quit. Here are some other qualities of project managers who take initiative:
1. They know what they want:
Author Napoleon Hill once said, “The starting point of all achievement is desire.” Never start a new project without a clear purpose, mission, scope and list of objectives. Try to ask project managers from across public/private sectors why they believe they’re successful, their answer is the same: At the outset of a project, they have clear expectations, so they’re positioned to move forward.
2. They push themselves to act:
Always follow the principle, “You can if you will.” What motivates them every day is a belief in their profession. Effective project managers make it a regular practice to push beyond their comfort zone.
3. They take more risks:
Proactive project managers push themselves to act. They’re willing to take a gamble every now and then. They also know when to walk away from a situation that’s just not worth it.
4. They make more mistakes:
The good news is that those project managers willing to take initiative make things happen. The bad news is that they also tend to make a lot of mistakes. IBM founder Thomas J. Watson recognized that when he remarked, “The way to succeed is to double your failure rate.” Are you the type who takes initiative? If you haven’t pushed yourself lately, you may need a jump-start. Try the following steps:
- Change your mindset:
Determine why you hesitate to take action. Does risk scare you? Are you discouraged by past failures? Do you fail to see the potential that an opportunity offers? You won’t be able to move forward until you identify the source of your hesitation and address it.
- Don’t wait for opportunity to knock:
Take stock of your assets, talents and resources. Then, be on the lookout for people or teams in need of your skills. Who could really benefit from your expertise? Opportunity is everywhere.
- Make the jump:
It’s one thing to see opportunity; it’s another to actually do something about it. Pick the best one and pursue it as far as you can. Chances are your project, your organization and your career will all benefit.