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Project Manager Therapy

I often remind myself that this career is supposed to be hard. Finding the work difficult reminds us that we are probably doing something right. If it feels easy, we probably aren’t pushing ourselves hard enough. If we feel damaged, we are probably pushing ourselves too hard. It’s ok to need help with finding the right balance and it’s ok to need help getting up from a bad fall.

I’ve been a Project Manager in the Technology sector since 2005. Prior to that I worked in Cultural Resources Management, acting as a PM for archeological compliance work. My Masters research led me into technology and I have never looked back. Humans are more complex than any computer system, so I find my anthropology background quite helpful.

Nicole Pletka Nicole Pletka

Giving Good Feedback

The best thing any manager should learn is how to give good feedback and how to receive feedback well. Feedback can be showing appreciation, giving some coaching, or evaluating a performance. In any case, giving and receiving frequently are imperative to having a good relationship with any boss or employee.

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Nicole Pletka Nicole Pletka

Finding Clarity and Balance

Being clear on my values, strengths, and long-term goals, helps me pursue opportunities that energize instead of drain me. Knowing what I truly need, helps me clarify my goals and know where to focus my efforts. Clarity isn’t about having every detail figured out, it’s about knowing what matters most and letting that guide my choices.

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Nicole Pletka Nicole Pletka

The Handshake: A Symbol of My Principles

The handshake means a lot to me. Some pivotal moments in my life, moments that have made me who I am as a person, and a leader, are directly related to the simple handshake.

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