Project Failure Files: Ignoring Leadership and Team Dynamics
In Episode 6 of the Project Failure Files weekly webcast, we discussed the HUGE mistake of “Ignoring Leadership and Team Dynamics: The Human Factor,” and shared some of our personal experiences when we focused on process and delivery and failed to pay attention to the role of leadership and stakeholder participation, or in how team (organizational) dynamics and culture should have been considered in project planning. My co-host Sharon Weaver (@sharoneweaver) and I highlighted this common mistake of ignoring leadership styles and team culture, often stemming from misconceptions about their impact. We discussed how different leadership styles, such as autocratic, democratic, and transformational, can significantly influence project outcomes and emphasized the importance of understanding team dynamics, including roles, relationships, and norms.
We then moved on to practical solutions and actionable strategies for developing effective leadership and fostering positive team dynamics. We emphasized the importance of self-awareness, regular reflection, and seeking feedback from team members and peers. Leadership training, mentorship, and the flexibility to adapt leadership styles to different situations were also highlighted as key strategies. For building and maintaining positive team dynamics, we discussed the need for clear roles and responsibilities, open communication, collaboration, and regular recognition of successes. Techniques for conflict resolution and using agile methodologies were presented as vital for creating a supportive and adaptive project management environment.
Finally, we addressed the cultural issues and the importance of promoting a healthy work culture. Sharon and I discussed the challenges and benefits of managing culturally diverse teams and the need to promote inclusivity and diversity, emphasizing the significance of work-life balance, mental health, and continuous improvement practices. By embedding these principles into the team’s culture, project managers can proactively prevent issues and foster a resilient and productive team environment. Enjoy the episode!
Be sure to tune in next Monday, July 29th at 9am Pacific for Episode 7 of this weekly series as Sharon and I discuss “The Impact of Ratings, Rankings, and Reviews on Employee Enthusiasm.“ Join us on LinkedIn.
