October 26, 2021 |
Insights |
Helen S. Cooke Some organizations use a methodology called “managing by projects,” but it’s not traditional Project Management
As organizations scramble to adapt to rapid changes in the contemporary work environment – including increased automation – there is a new focus on improving work methods and getting results by whatever means necessary. In the realm of project management, …
Emphasize your past successes while ensuring the project matches your skills
One of the interesting aspects of searching for project management positions in today’s employment market is that sometimes you’re not really being interviewed for a project manager position. Project management might be the title proposed, but the role might diverge …
These 13 questions will help you navigate difficulties and disagreements
Clients and consultants sometimes encounter difficulties when they don’t share a common understanding of how to improve a situation. They may not have a clear handle on the goals. The client might have a better understanding of their business than …
the definition of Project Management is not clear to everyone
The term “project management” has become a buzzword. And like any buzzword, it’s thrown around freely without much common understanding of what it really is. As a result, people who aren’t actually doing project management are given that label, and …
January 22, 2021 |
Insights |
Helen S. Cooke Gaining experience is more important than your job title
In today’s rapidly fluctuating work environment, opportunities for project management positions may be fewer, but they’re still there. Indeed, capable leaders who can step in and adapt despite the unpredictability are sorely needed. You can build a career even in …
November 23, 2020 |
Insights |
Helen S. Cooke How to find opportunity when the job market is unpredictable
This is a down market. Jobs are hard to come by, competition is fierce, and even while some jobs are opening up again, there are far fewer than before the slump. So how do you keep your focus and build …
It’s all about communication
Consultants work with their clients to provide advice and support. Whether it’s just a short-term project or a consulting engagement lasting over many years, the best consultants know how to add value to the client relationship. They understand that the …
September 22, 2020 |
Knowledge |
Helen S. Cooke Questions to ask when starting a project
Because projects address situations not faced before, or strive to deliver results under circumstances not experienced before, there will always be unknowns. Planning can occur in the face of unknowns, but the more you know, the better your plan can …
Change can be difficult. Here are ways to make it happen.
One of the challenges of being a consultant is helping your client make needed or desired changes. Consultants can identify the required change, but they don’t have direct control over its implementation. They need to work with their clients as …
Thoughts on how to become a valued consultant
Many people have chosen the path of being a consultant. Businesses hire internal or external consultants to help them achieve their goals. But sometimes it’s not clear if being a consultant is “a good thing or a bad thing.” Not …
Project management helps address the unexpected
Many people have heard a lot about project management but do not really know how it works. A very effective example of project management in action is visible in Governor Andrew Cuomo’s live address on March 24 on how New …
February 25, 2020 |
Insights |
Helen S. Cooke understanding value is one of the most important parts of the job
One key aspect of project management is assessing the value of a project—but unfortunately, value assessment doesn’t always get the attention it deserves. As project managers, we all know it to be true: the definition of project success belongs in …