The Biggest Mistake I Made as a Project Manager ❌

Hi friends, Happy August! 🐝

Cannot believe we are so close to 2025!

Let’s dive into my mistake, I don’t want you to repeat it.

When I first started as a project manager, I believed that success hinged on mastering hard skills. I thought being a pro at creating Gantt charts and detailed project plans was the essence of the job.

But I was wrong, and I see many aspiring PMs making the same mistake.

Why is this a mistake?

Being a subject matter expert and crafting the perfect project plan only makes up about 5% of the job.

So, what's the other 95%?

With over four years of experience as a project manager, I've come to realize that the true focus should be on soft skills. Here's why:

- Hard skills can be learned: You can master any tool, method, or technique with time. It's just a matter of practice and dedication.

- Soft skills require patience and commitment: Developing soft skills is about more than just learning; it's about transforming into a leader.

What does it mean to be a great leader as a PM?

1. Being humble and honest: It's okay to say, "I don't know yet, but let me figure it out."

2. Leveraging team strengths: A great leader understands the skills of their team and allocates work accordingly.

3. Prioritizing growth: Focus on both the professional and personal development of your team members.

4. Creating a safe environment: Ensure that everyone feels secure and valued.

5. Empowering others: Avoid micromanaging and trust your team to do their best work.

6. Valuing people over processes: People are the heart of any project.

This is why AI will never replace project managers. Our role is 95% about how we manage situations, emotions, and lead our teams. It's about the human connection and leadership qualities that can't be replicated by a machine.

Here is my advice:

Focus on developing your soft skills! Especially in 2024/2025 when we are in the AI era.

Invest in your growth as a leader, and you'll find that the impact you have on your team and projects will far exceed any technical skills you can master. After all, it's the people, not the processes, that make a project truly successful.

P.S. August will be fruitful with events on LinkedIn and yes, you are invited!!

Aug 7th, 7 pm EDT - Julia Ode and I will host the LinkedIn Live Event on How to use your transferable skills and land the PM role!

Aug 15th, 7 pm EDT - Benjamin Chan will host the LinkedIn Audio Event, where I will speak about Job Search Tactics and Strategies in 2024!

See you there!

P.P.S. Yesterday, I had a call with an amazing PM who was looking for profile optimization tactics. She received tons of advice from me on how to optimize her LinkedIn profile for Job Search.

Here is her feedback:

My heart melts because I love empowering you guys and seeing how you succeed!!

When you are ready, feel free to book a call here.

With Love,
Violeta