3.7. Chapter Summary

The role of the Project Manager is critical to success. The MIT Sloan Management Review suggests four roles of the Project Manager, which include collaboration, integration of planning with learning, prevention of disruptions, and maintenance of forward momentum. Human Resources supports the hiring of Project Managers and selecting people who have communication skills, including listening, negotiation and conflict resolution. Project Managers may need or have different leadership skills depending on the project. The Project Manager needs leadership and managing skills to lead and manage the team successfully. Human Resources can develop Performance Reviews and set goals for the Project Manager and the team before the project starts.

Emotional Intelligence (EI) is a popular assessment used to select or provide professional development for Project Managers and teams. It is based on self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and relationship management. Other popular assessments are Myers-Briggs and the DISC Method. Each has its way of measuring the leadership and management skills of Project Managers and teams. Human Resources Specialists would be trained before offering these assessments. In turn, they would administer the assessments to support the Project Manager and team in their professional development.