We all know that TPMs wear multiple hats at all time. They are gathering requirements, they are documenting, they are dousing fires, they are communication in charge and so much more. Running multiple shows, requires them to have multiple skills. Good communication, negotiation, problem solving etc. However, if there is one skill that rules them all, it is ‘likability’.

Likability refers to the quality of being easy to like or having qualities that make someone pleasant and agreeable. Here are 5 reasons why likability is so important.

• Getting things done: An extension of being likeable is not coming across as a ‘threat’. Though these two are probably pretty far away from each other in the spectrum of nicety, it is important to first come across as ‘not a threat’ and then eventually ‘i’m your friend’. This goes a long way in getting things done. People will be so much more willing to co-operate when they consider you a friend.
• Bagging new projects: It goes without saying that a likeable person also becomes popular. If you are friends with many people and people know you, they will recommend you when new project allocation decisions are being made. Because they want you to be in their team.
• Getting away with mistakes: In a complex project, there is never a clear path laid out, there are trial and errors, wrong leads etc. Things are guaranteed to not go smoothly. But when TPMs are in the good books of their stakeholders, a mistake here and there is likely to be overlooked.
• Obtaining project insights: TPMs have to heavily depend on their stakeholders to get a lay of the land before they jump in to add value. Initially, it is much more of a ‘take’ operation rather than ‘give’. You might have to set up multiple long brain dump meetings before going in and making things happen. Coming across as warm cordial and friendly will help in this data dissemination.
• A life-jacket during tumultuous storms: Projects fail all the time. And tempers will fly high during those times. A TPM is expected to subtly balance getting people to deliver the work required to complete the project, while ensuring that no one is offended by the tough questions. Being likable will save you during such times.
• Leadership exposure: All the above aspects will allow you to make leaps in the TPM world, getting more visibility with the senior leadership.