This podcast features hosts Merv Jersak and Tim Jerome discussing advanced project management strategies, with a focus on improving project outcomes by effectively managing up and building strong relationships with executives and peers. They emphasize the importance of understanding human dynamics, active listening, and demonstrating appreciation and respect. Techniques such as mirroring body language, reading the room, and anticipating needs are discussed as ways to enhance communication and influence. The conversation also highlights the value of authenticity and integrity in professional interactions. Additionally, practical tips for going above and beyond in supporting executives and fostering reciprocity in professional relationships are shared, illustrating how project managers can achieve success by aligning technical skills with strong interpersonal skills.

Main Take-Aways

1)     Project managers should put themselves in their managements’ positions to better understand how to engage with them.

2)     Project managers should learn how to read body language and verbal cues to be more effective in their communication and influence with executives.

3)     Project managers should learn to anticipate their executives’ needs and to be proactive in their working with management.

4)     Project managers build professional relationships by asking for favors and expressing gratitude.

5)     Project managers are always their authentic selves.

Show Notes

Today’s Project Managers Coffee Chat: Tips, Tools, and Techniques for Managing Up (Executives and Peers)

00:27 Introducing practical application of tips and techniques to manage (influence) our executives, customer executives, and peers as we lead our project teams.

00:57 Tim’s primary technique for effective executive engagement is to put yourself in their position. Recognize their accomplishments even when you only have a few minutes.

02:49 Merv agrees and cautions about being fawning versus being authentic.

04:23 Merv learned over several years the art of understanding and utilizing body language to understand your executive and how they conduct themselves. Watch how they interact with others. Practice mirroring.

09:12 Merv then adds to also learn to pick up on verbal clues and synchronize those with the non-verbal (body language) clues.

10:16 Tim augments the verbal/non-verbal tips and techniques by recommending that you also learn to read and understand an executive’s experience and confidence. He refers to situational leadership and suggests that you learn how to implement this technique.

11:52 Merv recounts one of his favorite techniques in going above and beyond the normal expectations for the role of a project manager; learn to be proactive and anticipate your executives’ needs.

13:47 Tim provides an example from Ben Franklin in that a great way to build a professional relationship – especially with peers – is to ask for a favor and then express gratitude. Merv adds that we as humans tend to want to help each other, so this techniques can be very useful.

17:41 Tim describes a powerful tip on being authentic. Be authentic with staff, peers, and management. Merv agrees, suggesting that while we may choose different communication methods with different levels of staffing, but your authentic self is the same to all.