6 tips for successfully managing surprise in a negotiation
Like it or not, we are all negotiating, all the time—and at some level, all negotiations involve an assessment of the balance of power: how much do I want what the other party has to offer, and how much do …
The future of work is about integrating technology—not being replaced by it
These days, there are many dire predictions about artificial intelligence replacing human workers. News specials and magazine articles speculate that no occupation is immune, or claim that whole fields of work, such as teaching or project management, might be replaced …
Since the dawn of time, mankind has used myths to make sense of the uncertainty that surrounds us. More recently, in the world of business and projects, risk management has performed the same role. Unfortunately, myths have also grown up …
These questions will clarify your client’s perspective, current situation, and future vision
As a consultant, one of your key objectives is to fully understand your client’s situation so that you can offer advice, solutions, and support as needed. This means taking the time to not only understand your client’s current reality, but …
December 19, 2018 |
Knowledge |
Denise Gifford
recognizing your client’s need for control is key to a healthy relationship
The client-consultant relationship can be complex, with hiccups and challenges experienced by both parties along the way. One of the most common challenges faced by consultants is balancing their client’s need for control with the need for some kind of …
November 28, 2018 |
Insights |
Helen S. Cooke
be ready to welcome change and continuously innovate
Change has always been a part of our society and economy, but during the past several decades, the rate of change accelerated and continues to accelerate. Looking back on the past forty years alone, the changes were seismic. Companies that …
Tips for communicating the value you provide to the client relationship
To build effective consulting relationships, consultants must understand their own value and how it supports their client’s goals. What are the experiences, insights, and skills you have that will help your client succeed? If you’re working with an established client, …
opportunities are important and need to be captured where possible
Current risk management standards and guidelines use broad definitions of “risk” that encompass both threat and opportunity, but many people still find it difficult to understand why “opportunity” is included in the definition. And without understanding the reasons, there is …
Opportunities and threats are both uncertainties that matter
The ability to manage risk effectively is recognized as an important contributor to business success, which is why it has become an essential part of the manager’s toolkit. Risk-based thinking is permeating the boardroom and discussions within executive committees as …
September 12, 2018 |
Insights |
Helen S. Cooke
End products are important, but so is your team’s health and happiness
Business projects are seldom discussed from the point of view of the “happiness” of their team members. Projects are recognized for getting things done, and projects are resourced for overall effectiveness. Sponsors, customers, and society at large look for valued …
Project success for change initiatives can depend on the ability of the organization to adopt change
We all need to know how to use our influence and powers of persuasion to support needed changes, whether with family, work life, or life in general. For project managers who are focused on delivering and leading change initiatives, persuasion …
6 surprising similarities between project management and art
Sometimes people assume a project manager is simply an administrator who tracks the progress of a project team’s work against an established schedule. But that’s the role of a schedule administrator, not a project manager. Project management is actually, in …