Running a project for the first time

Have you been tasked with running a project for the first time and consequently feeling somewhat overwhelmed? Fear not we have put together a simple 9 step guide to help you glide through Project Management.

Don’t rush in

Before you start, be clear on what the project’s objectives are and what success looks like. Identify what is in and out of scope of the project as this will ensure you keep the project brief tight.

Plan to Plan

Designate a significant amount of time to planning at the beginning of your project. An effective plan with aid a smooth journey in the management and go live of your project

Listen

Talk to customers and key stakeholders, build relationships and understand what their motivation is to make the project happen.

“Just Enough” methodology

Adopt a “just enough” methodology approach by keeping the methodology light enough to have control whilst avoiding excessive form filling and the bureaucracy that comes with it.

Plagiarise

Be smart with your resources by utilising the abundant tools and templates out there on the internet. Reflect on previous experiences and share them with colleagues- you never know what you might learn from a chat over a cup of coffee.

Be open and honest

Don’t mask issues as they will come back to bite you, be transparent and an effective communicator. Equally don’t be a drama queen and over communicate a minor issue, stakeholders will be busy people and will become frustrated with unnecessary communication.

Embrace change

One thing that is certain is that you will experience change, you will need to be flexible and adapt quickly in different scenarios.

Ask for help

Don’t be afraid to seek advice and support when stuck. You will be pleasantly surprised how many people are happy to help.

Stay positive

Your positive energy will be infectious and allow you to create an enthusiastic project team. Enjoy it, it’s a wonderful experience and you will make some good friends on the way!

Rebecca Brown
Head of Marketing
rebeccab@ninefeettall.com

I’m Becky and I am the Marketing Manager here. Starting at Nine Feet Tall was an important life milestone for me, as it was my first role after an 8-year career break to have my children. I have previously worked in consumer and sports marketing and have always enjoyed building, developing, and executing brand strategies. Having taken the time out to raise my three boys, I wanted to return to marketing and the opportunity at Nine Feet Tall was perfect. For me, working for a strong brand that punches well above its weight (or should that be height?!) in a values led organisation, with a team of fantastic people, and the flexibility of part time hours ticked all the boxes and I feel privileged to have this opportunity. I have been here a little over two years and have enjoyed all the challenges and opportunities along the way. My professional highlights are always when a piece of marketing activity leads to new business and personal highlights are the proper belly laughs with the team at our company days.