A Project Manager's Personal Attributes as Predictors for Success

Abstract : The purpose of this research was to determine what personal attributes project managers (PMs) possess that lead them to project management success. Numerous attributes are identified in the literature through a variety of methods, but very few studies relate specific qualities to success. The traits identified in the literature were compiled and condensed into seven distinct skills and attributes: leadership ability, communication skills, decision-making skills, administrative skills, coping ability, analytical thinking ability, and technical competence. A survey method was developed to measure levels of each attribute as well as performance ratings and observations from the PM's supervisor to provide a level of PM success. Participants were PMs and their supervisors from the Air Force Center for Environmental Excellence, a project management firm within the U.S. Air Force. Results from the sample of 23 PMs surveyed showed that administrative ability is the single most important trait for PMs to possess. Leadership ability emphasizing teamwork, decision-making skills with moderate levels of an adaptive decision-making style, and moderate levels of technical competence also were found to contribute to PM success. No conclusions could be drawn regarding communication skills, analytical thinking, and coping ability.

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