Duration
4 days
Overview
A project manager in possession of strong leadership skills stands out by confidently expressing thoughts and opinions, projecting a firm presence in relationships and being open to the views of others, while not being overly concerned with image. An effective project manager lives by his or her own example and has influence over stakeholders, so as to align them in moving towards the achievement of project objectives. What is communicated must be closely reflected in what is actually done in the project work, as well as in project decisions and actions taken.
The typical public sector multi-layered stakeholder community with diverse priorities, requires a broad, as well as deep understanding of human motives and behaviour. Management of public perception and political intervention requires the skillful navigation of conflicting agendas and viewpoints, while working within public sector constraints throughout the project life cycle.
Course Objectives
During the course, participants will:
- Gain awareness of the human perspective in projects and why it is critical to apply effective stakeholder management on the path to project success.
- Develop a basic level of self-awareness in regards to how their project management approach is perceived by public sector stakeholders.
- Gain insight into the motivations and behaviours of project stakeholders, to manage their expectations more effectively.
- Have an overview of project leadership as well as a specialist skill - negotiation.
- Understand the project human perspective from both a group and individual standpoint and benefit from acquiring techniques for team building, conflict resolution and managing emotionally challenging situations.
Module 1 Introduction
- Breaking the ice, course administration, feedback on participants’ specific public sector work environment and expectations of the course.
- Course objectives and agreement on learning approach and outcomes.
- Course overview, including the Iceberg Analogy, which explains the neglect of human issues.
Module 2 Some Introductory Awareness Techniques
- Developing motivation and commitment to project objectives through a personal contract.
- The formation of teams based on objective emotionally-independent criteria.
- Communication techniques to support the efficacy of presentations, reviews and meetings.
- The fundamentals of effective negotiation as a primary skill employed by project managers.
- Identifying the drivers of the civil service (political, social, environmental initiatives and policies) and how stakeholder management is critical for delivery of public sector targets.
- The art and science of project leadership.
Module 3 Considering the Other Person’s Point of View
- A look at how we are perceived by others, and the implications for project objectives.
- In a complex stakeholder community how do we stay open to all points of view without getting bogged down in ceaseless debates, and sustaining the forward momentum of the project?
- Internal and external communication considerations in a public sector project environment, including techniques for effective interaction.
- The critical importance of well-defined project roles and responsibilities in maintaining effective stakeholder relationships.
- Understanding human behaviours and the underlying factors.
Module 4 Review and Conclusions: The Management of Individual and Team Relationships
- Listening and expressing skills; the importance of nurturing positive stakeholder relationships and converting hostility into support, or at the very least, a neutral stance.
- Team dynamics and their management throughout the project life cycle.
- Conflict resolution in projects:
- Sources of conflict.
- Conflict resolution approaches.
- Hands-on practice will be provided with a case study exploring human relationship issues throughout the project life cycle and an Action Plan will be developed:
- The management of the Project Manager-Project Sponsor relationship.
- High-risk areas in public sector projects where project stakeholder relationships are likely to breakdown.
- Incorporating stakeholder and communications management in the project management plan, so as to provide value to enhance project performance.
Course Benefits
Participants will gain insights into the usually invisible area of project relationships with individuals and groups. Tools and techniques will be acquired to better leverage stakeholder talent and competence to support the achievement of project objectives. Project management professionals will have an action plan to enhance their capabilities to align the stakeholder community and make them feel more involved in the interests of the project and the relevant public sector organization.
Who Will Benefit
This course is designed specifically for public sector professionals at all levels. Participants could be intending to fulfil a near-term project support role or graduate to a project management or project sponsor role in the longer term.
Programme scope, delivery arrangements and suitability are confirmed during enquiry.