I was reminded again this week of a couple of things when it comes to focusing on the ultimate goal of your project.

1) Never let the noise around a project distract you from what is the objective of the project and subsequently the tasks that need to be achieved on that path. Internal office politics can make noise around a project but as the Project Manager you have the tools to focus on what is expected. Look at the plan and tasks that must be achieved, keep the issues log updated and escalate any that need to be and above all communicate clearly to everyone involved. Ultimately the Project Manager must keep their head while others around you are losing their’s 🙂

2) As the Project Manager you have to take responsibility for your team when there are issues. You may have no control over what went wrong and you may feel aggrieved that you are blamed but as a leader you have to stand up, accept what is happening, apologize for mistakes (on behalf of the team or your own) and get everything back on track again.

Always remember that you are in that position because of your experience and your ability to lead a team, stay focused and ultimately deliver – never forget.