Coaching to Manage Upwards

Experience shows one of the most challenging activities for PMs can be effectively managing upwards. Engaging effectively with very busy Project Sponsors or distracted senior Governance executives to communicate accurate project status, request appropriate interventions, align on risk qualification and calibrate suitable "air cover" can be difficult for a project manager. Miscommunication can be a significant source of service quality gaps for successful project delivery.

Successfully managing upwards is especially important when we remember two of the top three reasons for IT project failure are aligned with Sponsor and Governance expectations:

• Lack of clear goals and objectives (28%)

• Unrealistic expectations (26%)

This is where coaching, understanding, and applying Emotional Intelligence can really help. Emotional intelligence (EQ) is the ability to understand, manage, and use one's own emotions in positive ways to achieve success. It is a critical skill for project managers, who need to be able to build strong relationships with their team members, stakeholders, and their managers.

There are many ways that EQ can be used by project managers to manage upwards. For example, EQ can help project managers to:

• Understand their manager's priorities and goals. This information can help project managers to align their projects with the organisation's overall strategy.

• Build trust and rapport with their manager. This can be done by being honest and transparent, communicating regularly, and delivering on commitments.

• Be proactive in identifying and solving problems. This shows that project managers are capable and reliable, and that they are invested in the success of the project.

• Provide regular updates and feedback. This helps managers to stay informed of the project's progress and to identify any potential risks or challenges.

• Be flexible and adaptable. This is important in the ever-changing world of project management. Project managers need to be able to roll with the punches and adjust their plans as needed.

• Be positive and optimistic. This can help to create a positive and productive work environment.

By developing their EQ, project managers can improve their relationships with their senior executive sponsor and governance stakeholders to increase their project success.

Here are some coaching tips for project managers who want to improve their abilities to manage upwards and increase the chances of successful project delivery:

• Be aware of your own emotions. This is the first and fundamental step to managing them effectively for managing upwards.

• Understand the emotions of others. This will help you to build rapport and communicate more effectively.

• Use your emotions to motivate and inspire others. Positive emotions can create a more productive and enjoyable work environment.

• Manage conflict effectively. This is an important skill for any leader.

• Be resilient. This means bouncing back from setbacks and challenges.

• Be self-aware. This means understanding your strengths and weaknesses.

• Be open to feedback. This is how you learn and grow.

By following these basic coaching tips, project managers can develop their EQ and become more effective project leaders.

Need Help with Your Project Management performance to develop capabilities for better upwards management? Engage Applied EQ Services for bespoke online coaching, mentoring and consultancy services.