Action 9: Communicate

Action #9: Communicate

According to some sources, project managers spend 70 to 90 percent of their time communicating. Bennis and Nanus as well as Briner, Geddes, and Hastings agree. They would also agree that communication is very important for project leaders .

Ironically, many project managers really do not communicate frequently and if they do, they do so poorly. Their messages may be incomplete or inaccurate. The way they come across is often negative. They may choose an inappropriate medium or they may fail to tailor messages to the audience.

Whatever the reason, poor communication can prove damaging . It can increase negative conflict, can cause needless rework , can lower morale , and can strain relationships with key stakeholders. These are only a few of the consequences. Good project leaders recognize the importance of effective communication and treat it seriously.