72. Why Most People Fail at Project Management—and the Secrets to Getting It Right

PROJECT MANAGEMENT —  SECRETS OF THE CAREER GAME — EPISODE 72

Kendall Berg pulls back the curtain on the real secrets of project management that most people overlook—whether you’re a developer, marketer, or someone who “doesn’t manage projects.” From managing milestones to stakeholder drama, Kendall shares how to elevate your career by mastering these underrated skills.

 Learn how to set expectations, avoid common mistakes, and use strategic communication to get ahead, even when things don’t go as planned.

In this episode, we discuss:

• How to document expectations and business requirements like a pro.
• The art of stakeholder management (and why it’s like corporate babysitting).
• Why project management skills can save your career—even if the project fails.

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Key Takeaways

Project Management Fundamentals (00:00 – 09:02)

• Project management applies to all jobs, not just dedicated project managers
• Three main parts of project management: delivering on expectations, stakeholder management, and documentation
• Set clear expectations and metrics for success at the project’s start
• Document business requirements and processes before beginning work
• Establish stakeholder groups and set up recurring meetings

Stakeholder Management and Communication (09:02 – 17:46)

• Set up checkpoints throughout the project for updates and iterations
• Communicate different types of updates: milestone updates, risk communication, and CYA (Cover Your Attitude)
• Raise potential risks early to avoid appearing unprepared later
• Track and communicate progress towards established expectations regularly
• Documentation is crucial for project protection and success

Project Adaptability and Optionality (17:46 – 26:42)

• It’s okay if a project doesn’t have the desired outcome if managed effectively
• When disagreeing with a project direction, provide options instead of direct disagreement
• Present 3 or fewer options to stakeholders, including the requested option and alternatives
• Never say ‘I told you so’ in a corporate environment
• Effective project management can make you look like a rock star, even if the project doesn’t succeed as initially planned

That Career Coach

Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach?

Follow her on Instagram: @thatcareercoach_

Check out her courses on the website: https://thatcareercoach.net/

Build out the tools you need to navigate the corporate game: — Self Driven Mastermind