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Are you coordinating a project and feeling out of your depth?
Feeling like an imposter when comparing yourself to colleagues more experienced than you?
Being the least experienced person on the team can be a blessing in disguise. It's an opportunity to grow.
Photo by Jeremy Bishop on UnsplashEarly in my career as a project coordinator, I found myself managing multiple projects for stakeholders who had vast amounts of expertise in areas I knew very little about.
The following tips will help you make the most out of this unique experience.
1. Build relationships
A strong team fosters trust, making it easier to coordinate and collaborate on a project.
Take the time to get to know your colleagues, both professionally and personally.
Understanding their strengths and weaknesses can help you delegate tasks effectively and tap into their expertise.
You're not expected to have all the answers. Listen to your colleagues, and trust them to take ownership of tasks.
Did you know?
Check out this Byte for more info: The Importance of Relationship Building at Work
2. Always make time to learn
Recognize that you're surrounded by a wealth of knowledge and experience. Take advantage of it!
Ask for mentorship and guidance from your more experienced teammates. Learn from their successes and failures, and use their insights to grow in your role.
Remember, you're not expected to have all the answers, but you are expected to learn and improve.
Quiz
Juan is a project coordinator who joined an already established team. Juan's manager wants him to introduce a project management tool to enable them to work more efficiently. Juan doesn't know where to start. What should he do? Select all that apply:
It's a good idea to ask for advice if you're not sure how to go about a task. Also by consulting the team you've just started working with you are demonstrating that you value their opinion.
Did you know?
Here's a great Byte on finding people who inspire you at work.
3. Time management is key
As a project coordinator, you'll have numerous tasks on your plate. Effective time management is essential. 
Use tools and techniques to prioritize your tasks, set deadlines, and stay organized. Tools like project management software can help you keep track of important deadlines.
Manage your time wisely to ensure that you meet your commitments and deadlines.
Photo by Luke Chesser on UnsplashDid you know?
Check out Time Management 101 for essential tips.
4. Show initiative
Be proactive in seeking solutions and contributing to the project's success. Don't wait for others to lead the way.
Step up and show initiative where appropriate. Volunteer for tasks and responsibilities, even if they're outside your comfort zone. Your willingness to take on challenges will not only earn you respect but also help you gain valuable experience.
5. Be adaptable
The world of work is constantly changing, and the ability to adapt is a valuable skill. Be open to feedback and be willing to adjust your approach if necessary.
As the least experienced team member, you may need to pivot your strategies based on the team's evolving needs and the project's requirements. Embracing change is a hallmark of a successful project coordinator.
Photo by Balaji Malliswamy on UnsplashQuiz
You're struggling to manage a project and a more experienced colleague suggests a different approach. What should you do?
Reflect on your colleague's suggestions with others involved in the project and get them on board with the idea. These discussions will allow others to make suggestions, creating a more collaborative approach, which could take the pressure off you.
Take Action
Coordinating a project as the least experienced member of the team can be an enriching and rewarding experience.
Just make sure that you:
This Byte has been authored by
Ceri Vaughan
Teacher
MA PGCE