In this episode, hosts Merv Jersak and Tim Jerome conclude the fourth season by reflecting on the significant themes discussed throughout the season, focusing on the human aspects of project management. They revisit the importance of leadership, communication, emotional intelligence, adaptability, and resilience in achieving exceptional project results. Drawing from personal experiences and industry standards, the hosts emphasize learning to lead with empathy, cultural awareness, and ethical governance. They also highlight the necessity of practical skills like problem solving, negotiation, and networking within the realm of project leadership.

Main Take-Aways

Season 4 is a wrap with this episode, #120. Your hosts, Tim Jerome and Merv Jersak:

• reflect on the leadership focus of the season
• summarize the leadership skills that were covered in greater detail throughout the season
• encourage you to listen to the various episodes and apply their learnings to your own experience to see where you may improve your own leadership skills

Show Notes

Today’s Project Managers Coffee Chat: 24 Weeks to a More Successful Project Leadership Experience

00:27 Reflecting on the leadership focus of Season 4 and how we determined the subject matter for the 24 weeks of episodes. Season 4 discussed the important project leadership traits (indeed leadership traits in general) that go beyond just process and technology – the human factors that are absolutely necessary to enhance your skills as a highly competent leader.

04:17 A look back at Season 4, beginning with this week’s summation of enhancing these human factors expounded upon during the season through self-directed learning and focusing on providing value:

06:48     … the foundational skills of leadership with a deeper dive into leaders and teams, leaders and stakeholders, leaders and management

10:11     … collaboration within your teams and with your stakeholders

10:53     … communication, plus more focused discussions on both oral and written communication skills

12:05     … cultural awareness

12:50     … discipline, time management, and prioritization

13:56     … emotional intelligence with a focus on self-regulation and self-awareness

15:14     … adaptability, flexibility, and resilience

16:40     … problem solving and critical thinking

17:21     … creativity and innovation

18:04     … negotiation and influence, creating relationships

18:45     … networking, with a much-ignored offshoot of learning to “work the room”

20:06     … ethics and morals, followed by governance and compliance

21:10     … uncommon common sense

22:16 Encouragement to you the listener to review the topics of this 24-week season to help you become a more solid, more informed leader and more solid human being in all aspects of your life.

22:58 Tim and Merv conclude this episode and this season by reflecting on what they personally most enjoyed about their discussions.