Tamara McLemore, a renowned project management expert and founder of Tamara McLemore Enterprises, recently shared insights on the people-centric aspects of project management on the Become an IDOL podcast with Dr. Robin Sargent. Informed by over 20 years of experience in IT project management, Tamara offered valuable perspectives for aspiring project managers and instructional designers.
In the episode, Tamara challenged a common project management misconception. She stated, “People think project management is all spreadsheets. But projects are run by people, and 42% of the exam is on people. PMI surveyed all Fortune 500, 100, and nonprofit organizations, and they say project managers suck at managing people. So that’s what we’re learning to do.”
Tamara also emphasized the importance of understanding stakeholder motivations in project success. She shared, “We have to understand what’s in it for them. It may be a bonus. It may be a performance review. Everybody has something. And once you understand that, you just make it happen.”
When discussing how to handle project changes and stakeholder requests, Tamara advised listeners to focus on collaboration rather than confrontation. She said, “Don’t want to think of pushing back. I’m never going to tell a client no. However, I will tell them that if they want it their way it may require [more money] or an additional six months.”
To hear more of Tamara’s expert advice on mastering the human side of project management and preparing for PMP certification, listen to the full episode of the Become an IDOL podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/become-an-idol-podcast-project-management-for/id1457211214?i=1000666310862
About Tamara McLemore
Tamara McLemore, PMP is the founder of Tamara McLemore Enterprises, an executive consultant, certified Project Management Professional (PMP) Instructor, and a sought-after award-winning speaker. Her expertise lies in coaching mid-career professional women, empowering them with the necessary skills, confidence, and language to obtain their PMP Certification and secure significant career advancements.
Through her PMP Exam 2-Week Intensive where she has successfully shortened the traditional preparation timeline, enabling candidates to pass their PMP exam within 30 days (a process that typically takes 6-8 months). This accelerated timeline not only aims to achieve certification but also to position women in the careers they truly deserve.
With a wealth of experience spanning over 25 years in various industries including technology, federal government and aviation, Tamara has risen from being a project manager to now serving as the chief impact officer (CIO) of her own company. Tamara’s expertise has been recognized through her appearances as a guest on the Women Of Project Management® and the Harvard Business Review, Women at Work podcasts and has been a keynote speaker at prestigious events such as the Women of Project Management Conference, AE Ignite conference, and the Wonder Women Tech summit. She is also a LinkedIn Top Voice In Project Management. Additionally, she has shared her knowledge by teaching project management at universities and organizations worldwide, including appearances in India and Dubai.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Tamara enjoys traveling extensively and lives by the motto: “To be a Service to All Mankind.”