Do you understand the method, but struggle to get the people involved in your project enthusiastic?
Are you looking for tools to lead your team without having the formal authority of a line manager? Do you want practical guidance on how to work more effectively with your project sponsor or steering committee? Then this training is for you.

Why follow the Soft Skills for Project Managers training at Forsa Advies?

• Our specialised skills trainers bring out the best in you.
• Training courses from Forsa Advies receive an average rating of 8.9.
• In this training, we work with professional training actors for optimal learning impact.

Target audience

This training is suitable for both beginners and experienced project managers; you will receive assignments that match your level. What you do need is a basic understanding of a project management method, such as PRINCE2, project-based working, or another project management process model.

Learning objectives

After completing this training, you will be able to:

• create a partnership with your project sponsor and jointly agree on a clear project mandate;
• gain commitment for a project organisation that is structured according to project-based principles and result-oriented working;
• conduct effective progress meetings with a steering committee and/or project sponsor, and address difficult topics diplomatically;
• lead your project team effectively and motivate and stimulate both the team and individual team members;
• coach team members on agreements and provide professional feedback;
• better manage resistance in the project environment and intervene more confidently in conflicts.  

Duration

This training consists of a half-day kick-off and two full training days. The 2–3 weeks between sessions can be used to reflect on what you have learned and apply it in practice.

Study load and teaching method

Short theory blocks are alternated with practical exercises with fellow participants. You will not learn rehearsed “tricks”, but work from your own style and personal development questions. To truly experience the learning, you will work with a professional training actor.
Homework between training days is limited to 1–2 hours per session.

Training materials

The training materials consist of a handout (PDF) and the course book Project management for the unofficial project manager from the Covey-series.

Certificate

Participants receive a certificate of participation upon completion of the training.

In-company and customised training

This training can also be delivered in-company, in either Dutch or English. Customisation is possible to align with the group’s learning objectives. We will be happy to provide a tailored proposal.

Follow-up training

Contact us for free, no-obligation personal advice based on your wishes and situation.

Programme

Kick-off

• Establishing a shared starting point for project-based working and translating core principles to organisational project practice and project experiences
• Identifying learning needs
• Basic theory on behaviour in projects and the specific characteristics of leadership in a project environment
• Explanation of the practical assignment for the next session  

Day 1: Leading projects

• Opening
• Project manager with impact
  As a project manager, you make the difference and are the central link in the project. It is important how you come across, that you understand your impact on your environment, and how you can further strengthen your positive influence.
• Constructive confrontation and feedback
  In projects, hierarchical authority is more limited than in line organisations. Direct influence requires effective use of feedback skills. You will learn the art of giving and receiving feedback.
• Team development and the role of the project manager
  As a project manager, you are the driving force behind team motivation and development. The faster the team develops, the greater its effectiveness and impact. You will learn to recognise the different stages of team development and the leadership behaviour that fits each stage, enabling your team to take responsibility more quickly.
• Leading execution
  Leading projects is about people, and no two team members are the same. Your leadership style must fit both the situation and the individual’s need for direction. How do you deal with a team member who constantly resists and lacks motivation? You will learn when to be directive and when to let go, using four performance-oriented leadership styles that enable effective action.
• Competencies as a guideline
  The right person for the right task. Objectively assessing suitability requires looking beyond appearances. You will learn about different competency levels that help assess the suitability of project team members, laying a solid foundation for personalised coaching and motivation.
• Managing project conversations
  How do you keep conversations focused on the intended result and maximise the chance of achieving it?
  Effective communication is key. You will learn which steps are needed to reach clear result agreements and practise valuable intervention techniques that significantly increase your control over conversation outcomes.
• Practical assignment
  You will be challenged to apply what you have learned in your own project practice.

 Day 2: Partnership in projects

• Dealing with the steering committee
  Working with steering committees is part of the job. How can you influence them to make timely decisions? How do you ensure that the sponsor and steering committee take ownership of their responsibilities? You will gain insight and practical tools.
• The project manager as advisor
  Building trust is the key success factor in projects. You will learn how to build a partnership from the very first contact. How do you ensure your sponsor respects you, even when opinions differ? You will learn how to choose the appropriate advisory role.
• Professional handling of conflicts and crises
  Projects involve conflicting interests. How do you recognise conflicts early and ensure effective solutions? You will learn to apply different conflict management styles.
• Project and environment
  Projects take place within a context that includes organisational politics. Correctly positioning yourself and your project within this field of forces is essential for project success.
• Practice with experienced training actors
  You will work with an actor to practise specific project competencies and can bring in a personal challenge.
• Evaluation and closure

2026-01-08 TvdA