Mastering Project Management Leadership: Key Insights from Kevin Torf and Doug Thorpe
T2Group CEO and Managing Partner, Kevin Torf, was recently interviewed on the Leadership Powered by Common Sense podcast in an episode titled, “How Can Effective Leadership Transform Project Management Success?” The conversation covered key leadership principles, communication techniques, and the importance of psychological safety within teams.
Kevin shared his transition from an authoritarian leadership style to a more collaborative approach. By fostering open communication and psychological safety, he has built stronger, more engaged teams. Kevin urged to encourage open dialogue and create an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing ideas and concerns.
The conversation also included some discourse regarding the push-pull dynamic in leadership, a theme Kevin has covered in other podcast appearances. Effective leaders balance pushing teams toward goals while pulling them in with support and encouragement. Push: set clear goals and hold team members accountable. Pull: provide resources, guidance, and motivation to help them succeed.
Kevin and Doug also discussed strategic planning and organization. Specifically, success in project management hinging on meticulous planning and organization. Planning involves defining objectives, timelines, and milestones to create a structured approach that guides the team through project execution. Organization, on the other hand, entails assigning clear roles and responsibilities to ensure alignment and accountability, preventing confusion and inefficiencies within the team.
Regular reflection helps team assess progress, identify challenges, and refine their strategies. Scheduling weekly or bi-weekly reflection sessions allows for a structured review of what is working and what needs adjustment. Using feedback from these sessions drives continuous learning and improvement, which fosters a culture where teams can adapt and enhance their performance over time.
In his discussion with host Doug Thorpe, Kevin also illustrated that focusing on one project at a time leaders to faster and higher-quality results compared to juggling multiple projects simultaneously. By prioritizing projects and minimizing overlap, teams can work more efficiently and produce better outcomes.
Insofar as enhancing global collaboration is concerned, the conversation suggested that a hybrid approach with overlapping work hours will enhance continuity and communication for global teams. In such an environment, implementing scheduled check-ins help keep everyone aligned and informed about project progress. Additionally, fostering camaraderie strengthens teamwork and engagement, ensuring that even distributed teams maintain a sense of connection and shared purpose.
Overall, Kevin emphasized the power of leadership in project management. By fostering collaboration, clear communication, and strategic focus, leaders can drive their teams to success.
You can tune in to this podcast episode here >>