The seven types of project managers

Are you a project manager? Or work with one? Either way, it is good to know about various types of project managers and their personalities. Because even though we are surrounded with gazillion management tools and software, the need of a Project Manager can never be underestimated.

Project Manager is the binding force that keeps every single thing related to project execution in harmony. A project manager is always a dominant factor in both success and failure of a project. In the absence of a project manager, it is very likely that coordination among departments will soon fade away and everything will descend into chaos. So, it pays to know a manager’s personality, traits, and skills, and how they directly impact everyone’s quality of work and overall output.

Some project managers are extremely detail-oriented who analyse things under a microscope. On the other hand, some like to add an element of fun and creativity in the project. Some managers like to guide people, while others are firm believers in delegating work and authority.

The types are many; but what type of project manager are you? Or, what type of personality does your manager have? Let’s help you figure that out -

1. The Perfectionist

The name itself suggests what to expect from such type of managers. The perfectionist will have everything done in a very cut and dry manner. They like to closely analyze the progress and oversee each and every thing. Such a manager would possess amazing organizational skills. With this type of manager, you can expect every single tiniest of detail to be just the way it should be.

2. The Front-runner

This type of project manager will leave no stone unturned to achieve expected outcomes from the project. They will do whatever is needed to get the job done, and a lot more than that. They are always thinking of new and creative ways to boost the quality of work; constantly setting higher parameters for measuring success. Such managers always like to encourage others and achieve more.

3. The Prudent

We can say that the way such a manager works is inspired a lot by the game of chess. A prudent manager likes to think-through all the steps of a plan well in advance. If plan ‘A’ fails to deliver the expected outcome, the manager will have plan ‘B’ as backup. The prudent type of managers are excellent at working out contingency plans. They have each member’s role defined in the most precise and detailed manner. Also, anything and everything related to the project, they will have it on their fingertips to the very last step.

4. The Savior

Whether teams are facing too much pressure or project is going through downward spiral — the savior is always there to solve the crisis. Whatever crisis the project is going through and whatever troubles the team members are facing; these type of managers will always have a solution up their sleeves. Resourcefulness is the word that aptly describes such managers. They are very creative and solve problems with their out-of-the-box approach.

5. The Dictator

‘Discipline’ is the middle name of project managers with this personality type. They need everything executed in a certain manner, as well as on time. A manager with the dictator personality type is likely to stick to the convention. This type of manager will have a strong and influential personality. Often a great leader, this manager would know the art of motivating people to get things done without any room for chaos or unnecessary delays.

6. The Advisor

Such a manager would be a powerhouse of knowledge! The advisor managers would know how to maintain their calm and patience under all sorts of situations. They proactively seek to answer team members’ questions and doubts. They like to guide people for the greater good, and are always there to advise people on all issues whether they happen to be project related or not. With their amazing leadership qualities, they can make people collaborate with a sense of togetherness.

7. The Delegator

The Delegator is always entrusting of the team members. Such managers love to involve senior level management as well as the team in every major and minor decision. They are a firm believer in helping people expand their horizons, and let everyone explore their untapped potential by letting them handle more than what they think they are capable of. Managers with this personality are great at bringing out the best in people.

Those were a few personality types of project managers that you will find in most organizations.

Can you think of any other personality type that has not been mentioned in the post? Which type were you able to relate to the most? Share your views through comments!