Competencies of project manager

A project manager is responsible for the successful planning, execution and completion of a project. Competencies of a project manager include strong organizational and communication skills, the ability to prioritize tasks, technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage resources and teams of people. They must be able to effectively manage risk and identify potential problems before they arise. Additionally, a project manager must be able to effectively delegate tasks, monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to ensure the project is completed on time and under budget. Lastly, a project manager must have the capacity to understand the scope of the project and anticipate changes in order to ensure the project is successful.

Example of competencies of project manager

• Project Management: Demonstrates the ability to plan, organize, prioritize and manage multiple tasks, resources, and deadlines. Displays knowledge of project management principles, tools and techniques.
• Problem Solving and Analytical Skills: Possesses the ability to identify and analyze problems and develop solutions. Demonstrates the ability to think creatively and strategically.
• Communication Skills: Displays strong verbal and written communication skills. Possesses the ability to effectively communicate project plans, requirements and updates to stakeholders.
• Leadership and Team Building: Demonstrates the ability to lead and motivate teams and individuals. Possesses the ability to build relationships and foster collaboration.
• Risk Management: Possesses the ability to identify and mitigate project risks. Demonstrates the ability to develop risk management plans and strategies.
• Technical Expertise: Possesses the knowledge and skills to plan, develop, implement and maintain project-related technology.
• Organizational Skills: Displays strong organizational skills and the ability to multi-task. Demonstrates the ability to manage tasks and resources to ensure the project meets its objectives.
• Negotiation Skills: Displays the ability to negotiate with stakeholders to resolve conflicts and reach agreements.
• Prioritizing Tasks: Project managers must be able to prioritize tasks and manage the workload based on project needs and deadlines.
• Resource Management: Project managers must be able to manage resources and teams of people in order to ensure the project is completed on time and under budget.
• Anticipating Changes: Project managers must be able to anticipate changes and proactively address them in order to ensure the project is successful.
• Adaptability: With the ever-changing landscape of projects, project managers must have the ability to adjust their approaches when needed. They must be able to respond quickly and effectively to changes.
• Decision-Making: Project managers must make decisions and judgments based on the data and information available. They must be able to assess risks and develop strategies to address them.

Competencies of project manager — recommended articles

Successful project manager — Project supervisor — Implementation of programme — Member of the team — Managerial skill — Knowledge and understanding — Tacit and explicit knowledge — Project sponsor role — Project team

References

• Loufrani-Fedida, S., & Missonier, S. (2015). The project manager cannot be a hero anymore! Understanding critical competencies in project-based organizations from a multilevel approach. International journal of project management, 33(6), 1220-1235.