Faculty Training Institute's (FTI) latest breakfast seminar: "Empathy as a Project Management Tool" makes the case for a more people-oriented approach to project management and illustrates the power of empathy as a project management tool.
The talk is aimed at project managers, PMO managers, HR and line management tasked with developing project management capabilities on projects and in their organisations. The complimentary talk is being hosted in Cape Town on 5 February and Johannesburg on 6 February.
Project managers are usually highly focused and capable individuals with strong innate capabilities. But according to Dr Mike O'Callaghan, PMP and presenter of the informative seminar, their certification and training does not necessarily equip them to work effectively with people. "Simple people-focused tools (like strategic stakeholder matrices), if used correctly, might be the most powerful in the project managers' toolbox," says O'Callaghan.
"Project managers need to understand that there would not be a project if people were not included," he says. "And that goes beyond the simplistic idea of delivery contracting."
The project manager is challenged to define and develop the project team as quickly as possible. S/he does not have the luxury of time to allow for the natural development of interpersonal/work relationships. Poor relationships within the team affect delivery and motivation, even rational decision-making. Emotions and mood are strong drivers of our attitudes and actions. Can a project manager really afford to ignore the human aspect of project management? And even though some generalities exist, every team member is an individual and every project provides new context. Standardised processes and tools cannot be generally applied.
Dr O'Callaghan has a master's in business leadership (MBL) from UNISA and a passion for understanding how projects work. His enthusiasm to do projects right, with a special interest in 'people in projects' is currently being employed at Engen to develop and improve project management processes and methodologies.
To book for this seminar taking place on 5 February in Cape Town and 6 January in Johannesburg, or to view FTI's comprehensive list of professional development seminars for project managers, business analysts, testers and leaders, please visit www.fti.co.za or contact Marcelle@fti.co.za or 021 683-4506.
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