The Messenger

Some teams just naturally fit together. Maybe they've worked on previous projects together or just have personalities that mesh well. Other teams. . . well let's just say that I've been on teams where there are those who really can't stand to be in the same room with each other. That makes it hard and uncomfortable for everyone. Sometimes, if the project manager can set clear goals and standards in the kick-off meeting, a lot of the strain can be minimized or avoided all together. April's Messenger, Unifying Your Team Without the Fireworks, will look at how creating a team mission statement, strategic goals, and a strategic focus can help bring a team together. …

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When joining a new company, or even just a new project team, you will quickly learn who are the overachievers. The ones who always have their work done on time (usually early), whose desk is always neat, who you can count on to do what they say they are going to do. It also doesn't take long to notice the people who don't quite live up to the standards that your company has set. They may be super nice and encouraging, but they may not have the best performance. It is our job as leaders to help the employees who may be floundering a little. The powers that be who hired them must have seen their potential, and we should do everything we can to help them reach it. We must teach them the skills needed to be successful. When they are successful, your company will be successful! In March's Messenger, Training for Performance, we will look at four reasons why an employee's performance may be inadequate. …

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When a project lands on your desk, a deadline comes with it. It doesn't matter if you're the one who sets it or if you're told when it needs to be done, there is always the date on the calendar that gets closer and closer with each passing day. Most of us have multiple projects going on at the same time. That means multiple deadlines to keep track of. How do you keep everything straight? Some people use computer software; others simply use a To-Do list. It doesn't matter what method you use, as long as things get done on time. In February's Messenger, How to Meet Deadlines, we look at ways to make sure that no task gets left behind. I will also give you some tips on when and how you should say "no". …

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