It’s true. I love the movies, the music and the television of the 80s. I even make references every once in a while.

In fact…I just let one of those references creep in to my work. Check out my latest article, Save Ferris!, which was posted today on Cognition. The article is about how we handle the challenges that work throws at us, and how it affects our attitudes. I’d say I’m a Cameron about 20% of my work week and a Ferris the rest. I’m a Ferris at home, for sure. How about you? Are you a Cameron or a Ferris? Comment on Cognition!

I’ve been blogging here for over a year now. The amount of content may not match up with the span of time, but hey, I do what I can do. I also manage projects, remember? But here’s the thing, my ideas are starting to find their way on to other sites, and it’s exciting!

I am really happy to say that an article I posted here a while back was recently featured on pmhut. The response to that article, through the blog and other channels, has been really awesome. In fact, it has totally inspired me to write more. I have been talking to a few other publishers about new articles and reuse of some of my current content, which is really cool. Honestly, I never expected more people than my mom to read this stuff. Actually, I don’t even think she reads it (and really, not that many people do).

So what’s the point? Why am I telling you this without actually naming the other publishers? The point is: a little positive feedback can go a long way. Remember that when you’re working with your project teams. A simple “nice job” not only makes people feel good, it inspires them to do better, or do more. And that’s all we want out of our careers, good work to show.

When my next non-blog articles are published, I’ll post links to them here. I won’t be looking for a pat on the back, but a comment, argument or response blog will certainly continue the conversation. A dialogue about what we do, or how we represent our profession is always a good thing, as long as you keep it respectful. So with that, I ask that you send me your ideas, or links to articles, images, presentations, or other things that inspire you. My list of topics is not never-ending, and I would love some input. Thanks!

I’ve said it before: I am not a trained project manager. I’m not certified in anything. I came in to this role on my own through a series of creative or communications-related jobs. When offered a PM position, I adapted my skills to meet the needs of what an organization needed in a project manager. And here I am, writing about it.

So I’ve been thinking about what actually happened. How did I reach this point? Here is my answer: I found what I could do reasonably well and ran with it. But here’s also what happened: I realized that I was no longer a part of a community that understood my role. So, I’m trying to change that. I am getting involved!

I just joined the Project Management Institute. My hope is to learn a thing or two through the many resources available to members and make some connections with project managers all over the world. Do I plan on becoming certified? I don’t know yet. I’ll take baby steps and see just how much I can do with my very limited free time.

Another fun PM-related thing that I have going on: I’m working with PhilaMade to organize a PhilaPM organization. That’s right! A PM community for Philadelphia. Our first event is on Tuesday, June 28. If you’re in the area, join us. In the future, I am hoping to build a community of project managers who want to share ideas and socialize. I’m looking forward to meet-ups, presentations and maybe workshops.

In the meantime, I’ll continue to learn and be better at what I do. Please let me know if you have any ideas on resources, conferences, or discussion topics (for the blogs, or otherwise).