Sometimes it feels like there are delays everywhere you turn. Weather delays while traveling. Rain delays at baseball games. And project delays at work.
How can we handle these delays and keep our projects moving forward at work?
Assuming that you’re not the one causing the delays (hey, we’ve all been there). Here are a few ways to deal with delays and keep your communications project(s) on track.
Keep a Level Head
Try to be understanding. Be the voice of empathy instead of anger. Yes, the weather sucks and your train is late again, but everyone is in the same boat. Getting angry isn’t going to make the delay go away any faster. Try this conversation with your peers to keep the project moving forward. “I know you’re upset, and I am too. But getting angry isn’t going to help. Let’s figure out how we can work around this delay.”
Find the Positives
Use the time delay wisely. If you’re stuck, why not use that time to catch up on some elements of the work that can make progress on the entire project go faster? With your extra time, you can be a part of the solution, instead of the problem. Try this conversation – with yourself or a peer. “How can we make this delay work for us? What can we ‘unstick’ to make the project go faster once everyone has re-engaged?”
Strengthen Relationships
Don’t let delays get you down. They’re frustrating, but they’re also a part of life. Use them as an opportunity to learn and grow, and you’ll be better off in the long run. They are also great opportunities to build more resilient client relationships by getting over a project hurdle together. Ask yourself, or your client, this question. “How can we use this delay to our advantage? What can we learn from it that we can apply when things get unstuck?”
So to everyone traveling, bring an umbrella and some patience. To everyone trying to move projects forward, bring even more patience, empathy, and see the challenge as an opportunity to build resilient relationships with your clients and peers.
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For end-to-end public relations strategy, including project management, reach out to Full Court Press Communications. Our in-house services include communications planning, media relations, message design and development, and more! Contact us today to get started.