The 7 Archetypes of Influential Project Managers
Early in my career, I saw two types of project leaders.
Some were outstanding. They handled challenges easily, supported their teams, and always delivered. As a result, clients kept coming back.
Others struggled. They were often disorganized, faced constant issues, caused disputes, and were hard to work with, leading to unhappy clients.
This is what inspired the concept of ‘The Influential Project Manager’ newsletter.
This type of manager has both the technical know-how and the people skills. They lead well, get the best out of their teams, and deliver results.
After reflecting about the difference, it all boiled down to one thing - their behavior.
The Formula for Predictable Projects
The seven archetypes are as follows:
The Communicator
- The Enforcer
The Builder
The Leader
The Attorney
The Accountant
The Business Developer
What is an Archetype?
An archetype is a typical example, pattern, or model that helps people understand each other.
These archetypes provide a way to better understand different styles of project management.
We'll explore each archetype and guide you on how to embody them effectively so you can successfully deliver your projects.
Archetype 1: The Communicator
Clear communication prevents misunderstandings and ensures alignment.
The Communicator doesn't just convey messages; they are attuned to the nuances of dialogue.
They prioritize active listening and craft their messages thoughtfully, considering the specific needs of their audience.
Archetype 2: The Enforcer
Consistency and accountability are paramount to a project's success.
The one who is fearless in upholding accountability at all levels.
Setting clear standards, and holding everyone, including themselves, responsible for their actions and decisions.
Archetype 3: The Builder
Every construction detail directly impacts project outcome.
An expert in the craft, this archetype prioritizes efficiency by minimizing waste and optimizing project value.
With profound understanding of construction materials, methods, and building systems, they guarantee work is done in sequence and meets the highest quality standards.
Archetype 4: The Leader
The true leader shapes the team's morale and path.
Prioritizing the team and its goals over personal interests, they exemplify dedication, taking ownership for every task, regardless of its nature.
As natural motivators, they build an environment that encourages the growth of future leaders and inspires passion and dedication.
Archetype 5: The Attorney
In this industry, contracts bind us, and understanding legalities is crucial for project success.
The one who comprehends contracts, legal obligations, and risk management. They're instrumental in conveying these complexities to stakeholders.
Their expertise is key to reducing risks and guaranteeing that projects stay compliant.
Archetype 6: The Accountant
Handling millions in finances means the margin for error is minimal. A project's viability hinges on precise financial insight.
The one who is skilled in preparing and maintaining key financial information.
With expertise in forecasting, budget management, and financial structuring, they ensure decisions are both informed and profitable.
Archetype 7: The Business Developer
Sustained business success isn't just about one project but envisioning the next.
The one who builds and maintains trusting, healthy relationships, and understands clients needs.
Authentic and likable, they make others feel valued and appreciated. Their genuine approach builds lasting bonds, driving project success.
The Well Rounded Project Manager
To get into flow in all aspects of work, you need a good scorecard. Change is a sustained reinforcement of new behaviors and thinking patterns.
The 7 archetypes provide a clear framework to gauge and refine your management approach.
Evaluate your proficiency in these behavior patterns so you can decide where you want to make changes and improve.
Here's a step-by-step guide:
Assessment Wheel: Visualize the center of a wheel as 0 and the outer edges as 10.
Rate Yourself: Assign a number to each archetype based on your satisfaction. Shade the section to represent the score.
Analyze Your Wheel: Most wheels aren't perfectly round, meaning some areas need more attention.
Focus: Choose up to two areas to work on. It is hard to make improvements in many places at once.
Define Success: Ask, "What does a score of 9 or 10 represent in each section?" By doing this, you visualize your ultimate goal.
Set Time-bound Goals: Allocate a realistic time-frame to achieve these objectives.
Make it a Game: Aim for a score of 10 in every section. Stay true to your goals and avoid being swayed by others.
Team Effort: If you lead a team, engage them in this exercise. Revisit and evaluate together 1-2 times per year to track progress.
Remember, round wheels roll best!
Final Thoughts - Your Technology
Mastering the seven archetypes is crucial for steering successful projects. But the real game-changer? Seamlessly blending these behaviors with the right technological tools.
A conducive environment accelerates personal and professional growth. For project managers, this translates into harnessing the power of technology and optimizing systems.
It's the bridge between processes and people, ensuring that operations drive us ahead, not drag us down. With the right tech, you get real-time insights, aiding informed decisions.
Here's the bottom-line:
Systems streamline your communication.
They set clear accountability standards.
They enhance your construction strategies.
They underpin your leadership strengths.
They ensure risks are managed effectively.
They sharpen your financial insights.
They shape stakeholder interactions.
In short, a synergy of people and processes, like what PROJEXION brings to the table, is the pinnacle of project management.
As you improve your actions, let your technology work in your favor, streamlining your journey towards becoming an influential project manager.
Until next week,
Kyle Nitchen
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