The MicroTrain Blog

Project management communication tools

by Donna Russell on August 23rd, 2010

TOPIC:   Virtual Teams and Project Management tools

Recently, the Project Management Institute-Chicagoland chapter had a dinner meeting regarding the use of Skype in regards to enhancing communication in virtual teams.  Having the capability to see someone that you are talking with and communicating with helps project managers assess understanding of expectations and can signal other aspects of team members needs like over allocation. 

Skype is getting more and more popular.  I was first introduced to Skype’s capabilities when my nephew was in IRAQ and we could talk to him on Sunday’s via a small inexpensive camera attached to our home computer with the use of Skype software.   Since that time, you may have seen me show the film, THE FUTURE OF WORK, on Youtube. 

Have you had practical use of Skype and what can you share regarding this fascinating team communication tool?  What other tools have you used to enhance Project team communications?

Why Networking Works for Project Managers

by Donna Russell on March 10th, 2010

Networking has been and always will be the tool and technique used by project managers in regards to building and securing their project teams.  Networking also works well when integrated into the career of project managers to help them find and secure their next project management opportunity.

Why Network?

No longer can a project manager sit in an office and manipulate software to get work done -- work is done through people.  It takes communication: up to 90% as evidenced on the PMP exam to accomplish successful projects.  If not assigned to you, you are networking and negotiating to find your dream team (and I don't mean the dream team that gives you nightmares).  I mean the team of qualified, subject matter experts that will accomplish the goals and objectives of your project. 

Building a solid networking list will help you when you need to replace or add people to you team for reasons outside of your control.

Benefits to you career:  If you have taken my PMP certification class, you know that I am a strong proponent of networking using handbills.  Handbills, if done correctly can facilitate the discussion with anyone in regards to your next career opportunity.  There are many project managers that have found out that when they network, they give more than they get! 

You may say, "Really?"

This is the secret behind successful networking -- helping others in their career pursuits.  Give me your thoughts!

 

 

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