PM War Stories #8 - Creating a PMO from Scratch: All the Help, None of the Hassle

Download PMW_0008_PMO_SoftSkills.mp3(22.7MB)

As Project Managers and PMO leaders, we are here to help. Sometimes, however, the people we are providing services to do not see it as help.  Let's face it. They are not always nice or cooperative.  It's a battle sometimes. And it can even be a battle with your own self.

Project managers must work around resistant individuals. When faced with negative tactics or passive aggressive behavior, see it for what it is.  More importantly, we must respond in healthy and creative ways. It is never a good idea to back down, but it is equally important not to retaliate, no matter how tempting.

In this episode we will be examining the business side of creating a PMO from scratch at a large credit card company and how an educational media company, used communications software to fuel its growth and connect world class experts with people who want to improve their knowledge and abilities. 
                           
This show is divided into 2 segments:

In part 1, we will be talking to industry insider, Alison Mills Long who has over 17 years of project management experience with the last 6 years on the business side bringing up a PMO from scratch at a large credit card company.  She will share her insights and war stories regarding implementing change and structure as well the rewarding experiences in using soft skills to get the job done (see Alison's recommended reading list below).

In part 2, we will be talking to Rafe Furst, CTO of Expert Insight in our Technology Corner segment. Rafe is a successful entrepreneur and business leader, having formed Pick'em Sports in 1996 and later selling it to a public company in 1999.  He has done cutting-edge research in Automated Software Development and is an experienced web developer and marketer. Rafe is responsible for online and IT strategy and development at Expert Insight.

We hope you enjoy the show and encourage you to send your questions, issues, and war stories.

Alison's Recommended Reading List

A Survival Guide for Project Managers by James Taylor
Working with Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman
Communicating Beyond Our Differences: Introducing the Psycho-Geometrics System by Susan Dellinger
The Birth Order Book - Why You Are The Way You Are by Dr. Kevin Leman

Music Notes

1. The opening of the episode - "People Skills" by KTM CLUB
2. Intro to interview with industry insider - "Truth Hurts" by BoMBeR
3. Intro to Technology Corner - "Communication Overdue?" by Ian Babington
4. The closing of the episode - "Communications Skills" by Amanda Caggiano