Project management might sound like something only big companies need, but the truth is, everyone can benefit from knowing how to run a project well. Whether you are organising a charity event, launching a new product, or just trying to get your team on the same page, project management skills keep things running smoothly and help you deliver real results—without the stress or the faff. Ready to sharpen your skills and have a bit of fun along the way? Let us dive into practical, down-to-earth tips that will help you become a project management superstar!
Know What Success Looks Like (and Write It Down)
Every great project starts with a clear goal. Before you jump into tasks, ask yourself (and your team): What does success actually look like for this project? Is it finishing on time, hitting a sales target, or maybe just avoiding a last-minute panic? Be specific. Write down your main goal, your key deliverables, and how you will measure success. Keep this front and centre, so everyone knows exactly what they are working towards. If you are working with others, agree what good looks like together—this stops confusion and keeps the whole team singing from the same hymn sheet.
Break It Down (No, Really – Make It Small!)
Big projects can be overwhelming. The secret? Break things down into small, manageable tasks. Start by listing every step you can think of, even the little ones. Use post-it notes stuck to a wall, a spreadsheet, or a project management app—the method does not matter, as long as you can see the steps clearly. Smaller tasks are less scary and make it easier to spot what needs doing next. You will also get more little wins as you tick things off, which feels brilliant and keeps everyone motivated.
People Power: Get the Right Folks Involved
No project is a one-person show. Think about who needs to be involved, who has the right skills, and who might need to be kept in the loop. Assign clear roles—who is leading, who is doing, and who is supporting. If your team is remote or spread across locations, set up quick check-ins on Zoom or Teams to keep everyone connected. Encourage people to ask questions and share ideas. The more engaged your team, the better your project will go. Remember, it is not about bossing people around—it is about bringing out the best in everyone.
Plan for Bumps (Because Things Always Change)
Even the best-planned projects hit a few bumps. Build in a little extra time for tasks, just in case. Think about what could go wrong—maybe a supplier lets you down, or a key person goes off sick—and have a backup plan ready. Encourage your team to flag issues early, so you can sort them before they become big problems. Stay flexible, adapt as you go, and do not be afraid to tweak your plan if something better comes up. Flexibility is your secret weapon for project success.
Keep Everyone in the Loop (and Celebrate Wins!)
Communication is the glue that holds any project together. Keep updates regular and simple—no need for long, boring emails. Use group chats, quick calls, or even a shared online board to track progress. Celebrate small wins along the way, not just the big finish. A quick thank you or a virtual high five goes a long way to keeping spirits up. If things go off track, talk honestly about what is happening and get the team involved in finding solutions. A positive, open approach makes the whole process so much smoother (and a lot more fun).
Use the Right Tools (But Keep It Simple)
You do not have to splash out on fancy software to manage a project well. Simple tools like shared calendars, spreadsheets, or free project management apps work perfectly for most teams. The key is to use something everyone understands and can access easily. Do not get bogged down in endless features—find what fits your team and stick with it. Remember, the tool is there to help you, not to make life harder.
Ready to Boost Your Project Management Skills?
Project management is about getting things done, keeping people happy, and staying sane along the way. With these down-to-earth tips, you are one step closer to running projects that really deliver results (and maybe even having a laugh in the process).
If you want to take your skills to the next level, our fun and practical Project Management Training Course is packed with hands-on tips and real-world advice for UK professionals. Join us online or in person and see the difference great project management can make. Find out more and book your place here!
