Want a Yes From Your Colleague?
I discovered this tactic by accident. One day, I was asked to replace another project manager whose contract was expiring. I was hesitant at first because I had an almost full workload already, but I accepted (and was surprised and flattered) when my supervisor mentioned I was recommended for the role by the contract project manager.
Project managers can be, for lack of a better word, jerks: they are constantly communicating, sending reminders and notifications and nudges, chasing people down to do things for them, and generally persuading or negotiating with others to balance costs, time, scope and other important variables on projects. I’m not saying I’m a jerk, but I have a feeling I’m definitely seen as one on projects.
Being personally asked to be the PM on the project (wanting a jerk to work with you?) was difficult to refuse.
And then while I was on the project, I spoke with the contract project manager as part of a knowledge transfer and transition process. When I asked why she recommended me for the role, she told me she had done no such thing. At that point of course…
