Skills Every Project Manager Needs

As the main person responsible for the performance of a project, a Project Manager has a core set of skills that are imperative to ensuring its success.

It is these crucial skills that provide the basic framework for how a Project Manager completes their job. However, there are some instances when an additional set of qualities is essential.

Among some of the core skills that any Project Manager should have are excellent communication skills, allowing them to relay their visions, goals, and to negotiate effectively. Leadership capabilities that make managing a team easy for them, and organisation, something that is vital when balancing schedules and deadlines.

While the majority of Project Managers working within the industry have a basic level of understanding regarding how tech works, it is becoming increasingly important for them to have a higher level of technical proficiency. As projects become more complex and as technology develops, conceptualising projects becomes more difficult. With all of this in mind, for those Project Managers who are working in the tech industry, there are a few additional skills which are necessary.

An understanding of IT architecture

IT architecture focuses on the structure of the organisation’s network, splitting it into tiers. This creates a framework which is then divided into several sections, with each representing a type of architectural specification. These categories, such as the server, middleware and client, are important for the Project Manager to recognise, as it allows them to locate where the apps and data are situated on the corporate network and why.

Recognising Return on Investment (ROI)

It is important for the Project Manager to recognise how their project, whether it is software, an application or a digital service, will benefit the organisation. Additionally, they will need to be able to decipher how it will impact the return on investment, by identifying if it will bring new business and how it will have an impact.

Communicating skills to non-industry professionals

As someone whose background may not be specifically technology-based, one of the key skills that a Project Manager needs to have is the ability to communicate the technical elements of the project to non-industry professionals. This is one of the benefits of having a Project Manager who may not have an IT background, as they can translate complex technical issues into more understandable points.

Recognise the language

In IT, there are a plethora of technical buzzwords and acronyms that are specific to the industry. For someone hoping to work as a Project Manager, being able to understand what is being said is vital. With many acronyms appearing similar, it is critical that they can keep track of the language.

Recognising technical competency levels

One of the core responsibilities of a Project Manager is to ensure that the development of your project keeps on schedule. To keep to deadlines, gauging the technical levels and skills of the staff involved is crucial. One of the reasons for this is so that if the job fails to keep on track, as a Project Manager, they will be able to decipher whether it is due to technical deficiencies and can work on a remedy to fix the issue.

Make decisions

Being able to make decisions is one of the most essential skills that a Project Manager needs to have. Due to their understanding of both the business and technical side of the project, they will have the best insight into making any choices that can impact the end result. Having perspective of both sides will also allow them to make a well-rounded decision confidently and without bias from either party.

If you’re looking for a new job as a Project Manager in Ireland, then get in touch with the team here at Eolas Recruitment today! Our team of expert consultants will help you to find your dream position, so contact us for more information.

Previous Page