Episode 522: What is Leadership? (Free)

Written by Cornelius Fichtner.

PM Basics

This episode is part of our Project Management Basics series, where we review the core principles of effective project management.

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Episode Summary

Leadership is more than just managing tasks—it’s about inspiring teams, fostering collaboration, and guiding change. In this episode, we break down what true leadership means in a project management context and beyond. Whether you're leading a small initiative or a large-scale transformation, understanding leadership principles can significantly impact your success.

We discuss the key differences between management and leadership, the essential leadership skills every project manager should develop, and the various leadership theories that shape effective decision-making. You'll learn how strong leadership drives progress, clarifies direction, and resolves conflicts to keep teams motivated and projects on track. Tune in to gain actionable insights that will help you lead with confidence and deliver results.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

The Difference Between Management and Leadership – How leadership goes beyond task execution to inspire and guide teams.
Essential Leadership Skills – Communication, conflict resolution, motivation, and adaptability in a project setting.
Leadership Theories in Action – How different leadership styles can be applied based on the situation and team dynamics.

Quotes from This Episode

"Leadership isn’t just about overseeing tasks—it’s about guiding people toward a shared goal." - Cornelius Fichtner
"Great leaders inspire a vision, foster trust, and empower teams to excel." - Cornelius Fichtner
"Your leadership style should adapt to both the situation and the needs of your team." - Cornelius Fichtner

Time-Stamped Show Notes

[00:00] – Introduction to leadership and why it matters in project management.
[01:13] – The key differences between management and leadership.
[02:32] – Core leadership skills: communication, team leadership, and adaptability.
[03:30] – Leadership theories and how they apply to real-world project environments.
[04:07] – The impact of good leadership on project success and team motivation.
[05:37] – Practical steps to develop your leadership skills.
[06:11] – Final takeaways: Leadership is a continuous journey of learning and growth.

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