When it comes to running a successful project, having the right team in place is key. But all too often, senior executives make the mistake of treating project managers as if they were mere administrative assistants. This could be a fatal error.
Let’s first establish that administrative assistants are a valuable asset to any organization. They keep the wheels turning by managing appointments, answering phones, and handling a variety of other tasks that keep the office humming. But a project manager is a different beast entirely.
A project manager is a strategic thinker, who’s responsible for the overall success of a project. They plan and coordinate resources, negotiate timelines, and manage budgets. They’re the ones who keep the project on track and ensure that everyone is working towards the same goal. In other words, a project manager is a leader, while an administrative assistant is a support role.
When a senior executive confuses the two roles, it can lead to a number of problems. For starters, the project manager might not have the authority they need to get things done. They might also be assigned tasks that are beneath their skillset, such as answering phones or scheduling appointments. This can lead to frustration and burnout, as the project manager is unable to use their skills to drive the project forward.
But the real problem is that treating a project manager as an administrative assistant sends a message to the rest of the team. It sends the message that the project manager is not a valued member of the team, and that their role is not important. This can cause morale to suffer and can lead to a lack of buy-in from team members, which can in turn lead to project failure.
So, to all the senior executives out there, let’s make sure we’re treating our project managers with the respect they deserve. They are leaders, not secretaries, and they play a critical role in ensuring the success of our projects.
In conclusion, administrative assistants are an integral part of any organization and play a critical role in its success. Project managers, on the other hand, are leaders who are responsible for ensuring the overall success of a project. When a senior executive treats a project manager as an administrative assistant, it can lead to frustration, burnout, and a lack of buy-in from team members, which can ultimately lead to project failure. So, let’s give our project managers the respect they deserve and allow them to lead our projects to success.
