"Would you lead this project?" It's no surprise that these words can cause anxiety. Many employees are thrust into a role of project manager with little preparation or training in project management.
Good news: There's software that can instantly make you a better project manager, improving your efficiency, your multitasking and your communication all at the same time. Better news: You probably already own it.
Whether you find yourself in charge of a project by design or by accident, stay on track with these strategies:
1. Don't skimp on the front end.
Many people rush to get started with a project, but rushing the planning phase can derail the project later. Make sure the plan is clear for the entire team before proceeding.
2. Watch out for the "project creep."
It is easy for the leader of a project to expand beyond predetermined boundaries. Do not take on too much and make sure that everyone on the team is living up to their end of the bargain.
Microsoft® Excel®, Outlook® and OneNote® all feature powerful project-management tools. But most people only scratch the surface of what these programs can do for them. Now you can unlock the power of all THREE of these software packages.
To help you do just that, we've created Project Management x 3: The Best of Excel, Outlook and OneNote. Office tech expert and Microsoft® Certified Trainer Melissa Esquibel will show you how to get the most out of the software programs you already have on your desktop!
3. Be prepared for changes in personnel.
Long-term projects are particularly susceptible to a changing cast of characters. Be prepared with ideas for new people to bring on board if needed and make sure you get regular updates, so you know what progress has been made by those that leave.
4. Use a combination of software and in-person communication.
Software and apps are excellent for keeping track of many aspects of a project. However, also make sure to talk in person to the members of the team and check in with progress reports.
Join us Thursday, October 20th, for this important training session. In just 75 minutes, you'll discover:
Excel Secrets - The right way to quickly create charts
- Labels, legends and axis formatting
- How to modify colors, fonts and other visual effects
- Advanced charting techniques – secondary axis, 3D pie chart tools, trend lines and templates
Outlook Secrets 
Using categories to define tasks- Employing task subfolders to create repeatable project plans
- Assigning tasks (or choosing not to and still getting work done through others)
OneNote Secrets - Task lists that sync with other programs
- Project status reports that practically write themselves
- Change control features that let you know who changed what when
- Clever uses for tags that keep everyone on task
From finding and customizing project management templates and formatting shortcuts to assigning tasks and getting at-a-glance status updates, Project Management x 3 will increase your efficiency … your productivity … and your value to your organization. It may even help you get home on time! Register now to join us on October 20th!
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