527: People Matter - Clint Padgett

Do you know how significant events like the Olympic Games are orchestrated with precision? In this episode, Denis welcomes Clint Padgett, CEO and President of Project Success Inc. Clint shares his extensive experience in project management, particularly in organizing significant events like the Olympic Games for major clients such as Coca-Cola. He emphasizes the importance of people in project management, noting that success often boils down to individual contributions and team dynamics. Clint, an author of two books on project management, discusses his approach to leadership and project execution, advocating for a blend of traditional and agile methodologies. He stresses the significance of accountability, especially in matrix organizations, and highlights the necessity of adapting leadership styles to changing circumstances while maintaining a core of consistency and transparency.In this episode:Clint shares insights from his books on project management, focusing on the blend of methodologies and the crucial role of people in projectsThe episode touches on the challenges and nuances of managing projects in matrix organizationsClint emphasizes the need for consistent, transparent leadership, adapting to changes without losing core valuesDiscussion on the future of leadership in the context of technological advancements like AIMain takeaways:Understand that successful project management is not just about processes and timelines but also about people and their contributionsThe necessity to blend traditional and agile methodologies in project management to cater to varying project demandsAccountability in matrix organizations: The critical role of self and mutual accountability in matrix environments where direct authority might be limitedLeaders need to remain consistent in their values and approach despite changing scenariosIt is essential to be transparent and communicative, especially in challenging situations.While leadership styles may evolve, the essence of leadership should remain centered on people-first principlesConsidering the impact of technological advancements like AI on leadership and management, maintaining human-centric leadership practices is still crucialQuotes:"Last time I checked, people do projects. Unless you want to be successful in the projects, you had better learn how to deal with people." - Clint Padgett   "If you want people to truly follow you, and if you truly want to be a leader, then you have to lead; you have to be able to take the first bullet." - Clint Padgett"The world is changing around us... but I would like to think that somebody in the organization at a certain level has some consistency that could be that stability we need in a world to change.""You learn more from failure than you do for success." - Clint PadgettConnect with Clint!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClintPadgettAuthor/   Twitter: https://twitter.com/clintpadgett    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clintpadgett/    Websites: www.projectsuccess.com