In this episode, I talk about the project management identity crisis, a major issue holding firms back from effectively growing and supporting their PMs. It’s a key theme in Chapter 1 of my upcoming book, Beyond PM Training, and something we often see in firms that struggle to clearly identify who their project managers are.
***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Overcome the Project Management Identity Crisis:
- Many AEC professionals manage projects without officially holding the title of project manager, creating confusion around roles, responsibilities, and project delivery expectations. This lack of clarity makes it difficult for firms to develop, support, or even identify their project management talent and grow engineering project management careers.
- In a project-driven industry, not knowing who the project managers are makes it nearly impossible to measure project performance or plan for growth. Just like a baseball team needs to know who its pitchers are, AEC firms need to clearly identify their PMs using accurate project tracking tools to succeed.
- Many AEC firms struggle to identify their project managers because the role is frequently hidden behind other job titles. Exploring tools like project software and HR directories can help, but organizations need a clear system to define and track who truly manages project responsibilities.
- Creating clear job titles that include project management responsibilities makes it easier to identify and support PMs across the organization. With defined roles and experience levels, firms can better plan training, mentoring, and hiring to strengthen their project management capabilities and ensure consistent client satisfaction.
- Knowing the number and experience level of project managers helps organizations plan training, mentoring, and hiring more effectively. This insight supports growth by ensuring the right people are in place to deliver projects successfully and drive long-term business results. Project managers play a key role in both delivering successful projects and building strong client relationships that lead to repeat work. Without knowing who they are, firms risk losing opportunities for profit, growth, and long-term client loyalty.
Books Mentioned in This Episode:
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