Unsung Heros

"You're doing a great job!
We've all heard it many times over the course of a project, from Directors, VP's and other corporate entities. In your head you probably say: 'Of course I'm doing a great job. If it weren't I wouldn't be here.'
We, as project managers are used to hearing that we're capable, talented and valued. Not everyone gets that satisfying kind of ego stroking. Often they work quietly in the background, but are every bit as important as those on the front lines. True, they seldom have to take the rap for things gone wrong, but the glory is seldom shared either.

One of the most important things a PM can do is to share the kudos. No matter how experienced we are and even if our career success average is a solid 4.85% out of 5; we cannot and do not do the project alone.

We have our engineers (of some kind) coordinators, vendors, BA's (don't get me started) and assorted others that track time against our projects. One person in particular is what this company calls an Administrator. He's the one that makes sure our Change Orders, personnel requests and assorted other project documents are executed and pushed along the corporate train tracks towards approval. Do I take him for granted, assuming he's doing his job correctly? Yes I do. I know him and he's never missed a beat. Does it make sense to thank someone for doing their job? Probably not, but expressing gratitude for a job well one is another thing.

Buying a $10 Starbucks gift card is a great way to say thanks. Come on, PM — pony up some gratitude! And while you're at it, if you're lucky enough to have a great coordinator, pick on up for him/her. Oh hell, and grab yourself one of those goopy caramel things.

Venti; of course.