Do Something

Project prioritization is a critical part of management at every level.  No organization can do everything at once.  If a project is not included on the high priority list, does that mean nothing should be done until the next time for the prioritization process?

If we are still committed to the outcomes, doing something may increase management’s perception of our project’s value.  However, there are right ways and wrong ways of doing something.

The worst way is to go underground, deliberately subverting the priorities of senior management and draining resources from other work.  Even if we achieve our project’s goals, it is hard to claim them without displaying our own disdain for others.  Not a way to engender the trust needed for career advancement.

The best way is to incorporate some of our outcomes in the projects that are on the priority list.

• Take time to analyze the components of your project to identify those that align with high priority projects.  
• Meet with the project leader and offer ideas that will accomplish goals in both their project and yours.  
• Do not be shy about claiming credit for these ideas, because recalling these to senior management later will help your project in the prioritization process.  Or, you may find that your project can be completely achieved through collaboration with others.  

Collaborative management is a highly valued skill.  Your ability to work through others may help you be assigned a high priority project where your leadership skills can be better displayed.