True Project Manager vs. Bad Project Manager | A Project Manager’s Perspective By Rakib Hasan

True Project Manager:

A True Project Manager is a leader who fosters collaboration, growth, and trust. They don't just manage tasks—they coach, inspire, and develop their team members. Here's how:

• Coaches project team: They provide guidance and mentorship to their team, helping individuals grow both professionally and personally. It’s not just about completing tasks, but about developing people for long-term success.
• Depends on goodwill: Instead of relying on authority or fear, they build goodwill and trust within the team. This creates a collaborative environment where team members feel valued and motivated.
• Generates enthusiasm: A True PM knows that enthusiasm is contagious. They bring positive energy to the team, fostering a sense of purpose and excitement about the project goals.
• Says “we”: Collaboration is key, and this PM speaks in terms of “we,” reinforcing the idea that the team is working together toward a common goal.
• Fixes the breakdown: When problems arise, they focus on solutions. They don’t look for someone to blame but instead work alongside the team to fix the issue and learn from it.
• Shows how it’s done: A True PM leads by example. They demonstrate the right way to approach tasks, showing that they are not afraid to get their hands dirty when needed.
• Develops people: Beyond the project, a good PM is invested in the growth of their team. They provide opportunities for learning and skill-building, ensuring that each team member is developing as a professional.
• Gives credit: They recognize and celebrate the hard work of their team, giving credit where it’s due. This builds confidence and loyalty within the team.
• Asks: Instead of commanding, they ask for input and feedback, making the team feel like active participants in the decision-making process.
• Says “Let’s go!”: A True PM motivates the team with encouragement, leading from the front and inviting everyone to join them on the journey.

Bad Project Manager:

On the other hand, a Bad Project Manager creates an environment of fear and resentment. Their focus is on control, authority, and self-promotion rather than on team collaboration or success.

• Drives project team: They push their team hard, often without considering the team’s capacity or well-being. Instead of coaching, they simply give orders and expect results.
• Depends on authority: A Bad PM uses their position of power to control the team, relying on their title rather than on building trust and goodwill.
• Inspires fear: Fear of failure, blame, or punishment is often used as a tool to get results. This creates a toxic environment where team members are afraid to speak up or take initiative.
• Says “I”: This PM focuses on themselves, taking ownership of successes and using “I” language to highlight their individual contributions rather than acknowledging the team.
• Places blame for the breakdown: When things go wrong, a Bad PM is quick to place blame on others rather than working with the team to find solutions.
• Knows how it’s done: They assume they know best and aren’t interested in learning from their team or allowing others to contribute ideas.
• Uses people: This PM views the team as tools to be used to achieve goals, without concern for their development, well-being, or long-term success.
• Takes credit: Instead of giving recognition to the team, they take credit for any successes, undermining team morale and trust.
• Commands: A Bad PM gives commands and expects immediate compliance, without encouraging dialogue or collaboration.
• Says “Go!”: This PM stays behind, sending the team to work while they sit back, avoiding direct involvement.

Written by: Rakib Hasan

Project Manager | Team Leader | Problem Solver

In my career, I’ve seen firsthand the impact that positive leadership can have on a project and a team. If you’re looking to enhance your leadership skills or need guidance on how to lead projects more effectively, feel free to connect with me here on LinkedIn! Let’s share our experiences and learn from each other to become better leaders every day.