Inspect What You Expect!

Here are a few top tips for managing people regarding projects, tasks and initiatives.

Inform...

the direct / relevant line managers; ensure that they are fully aware of the task or project. Make sure that they know what the task is, who you are proposing to allocate it to, and ascertain if they have any issues or concerns. 

Understand...

the ability of the person(s) you are giving the task to. Understand exactly what each person is required to do to complete the task. Arrange relevant training; do not presume that individuals have the necessary skill-sets required to complete the task.

Ensure...

that one person is identified as the project owner. Ensure that they know their responsibilities. Ensure that they understand your expectations and timelines. It is vital that this person and everyone related to the project know who is involved, the role they play and the relevant reporting lines of communication within your team. 

Explain...

to those involved how you expect them to manage the project and your expectations throughout the process. For example: regular updates, informing of delays/difficulties at the earliest possible opportunity. With this in mind, schedule meetings with clear agendas that are in-line with key dates, objectives and achievements. 

Set...

a deadline ahead of your actual deadline. This allows for the inevitable mistakes, unforeseen delays and necessary changes. 

Send...

reminders about what is expected and when. Compliment the reminders with offers of support, encouraging the staff member(s) to keep you in the loop.

Ask...

for draft project status reports on progress and content. This should be pitched in a positive manner giving your staff the opportunity to demonstrate what has been achieved, the approach that is being utilised, additional challenges and of course, the next steps.

Credit...

must be given when and where it is due. When a task is compete, contact individuals personally. Inform relevant line-managers and ensure that they cascade positive feedback to the right people.

N.B. The completion of your project may not be dependant upon how well you treat your team, but the level of excellence with which it is completed is dependant upon treating your team the right way.