Here's how you can navigate the common pitfalls when coaching project managers.

As an expert in coaching and mentoring, I can't stress enough the importance of aligning project goals with organizational objectives. It's essential for project managers to have a clear vision that resonates with the company's strategy. Utilizing the SMART criteria not only sharpens goal-setting but also enhances accountability and performance tracking. This alignment ensures that every step taken is purposeful and contributes to the overall success of the organization.

To navigate common pitfalls when coaching project managers, start by clarifying goals. Ensure that project managers have a clear understanding of project objectives and deliverables. Use AI-powered tools to track progress and identify potential issues early. Engage with the LinkedIn community to gather insights and best practices from experienced coaches. Encourage open communication and regular check-ins to address any challenges promptly. Additionally, provide continuous feedback and support to help project managers develop their skills and improve their performance. Implementing these strategies will help avoid common pitfalls and ensure successful project management coaching.

As someone with 2 decades of experience in leading PMs and PgMs, clear outcomes and success criteria are critical to achieving your goals. They are not only important for the person, they are important for the project. As a coach, it's important to be clear on what you are coaching, as well. For example, are you coaching them on better PM skills or are you coaching them on on their career. This is part of the partnership journey in a coaching relationship. Just like creating clear goals for a project, you want to do the same for a coaching relationship. Similarly, you identify obstacles and backup plans, to prevent those obstacles from thwarting your goals.

Project Management is one of the toughest jobs because you usually don't have a lot of legitimate power and have to rely on your referent power to get things done. This is why communication is so incredibly important. Coaching your team around how to listen deeply to the needs of customers and clients can be wildly valuable. You are constantly influencing and negotiating as a PM and communication is your greatest asset. The better you are at communicating, the more likely you will succeed. This includes being able to adjust expectations, make the team aware of obstacles and navigate risks, effectively. The PM often is the bearer of all the bad news, so learning to deliver bad news clearly and unemotionally is also a key talent for PMs

Navigating common pitfalls in coaching project managers involves focusing on clear communication, realistic goal setting, and fostering a supportive environment. Providing constructive feedback and encouraging continuous learning while addressing individual challenges and team dynamics is essential. Emphasizing the importance of flexibility and adaptability helps managers effectively handle unexpected changes and complexities. Coaches can guide project managers to lead their teams and deliver projects efficiently and successfully by promoting a balanced approach to managing scope, time, and resources.