Are you a ‘Get it done’ PM...
Or a ‘Get it done right’ PM?
Every project manager faces this choice: Do you push to hit the deadline at all costs, or do you stand your ground for quality?
The business wants speed. The leadership team want results. But when things start slipping, you’ll hear:
“Just get it over the line.”
“We can fix the issues later.”
“Done is better than perfect.”
It’s tempting to go along with it. A delivered project is a successful project… right? Not always.
The type of PM you choose to be determines whether you’re a short-term hero or a long-term leader.
The Two Types of PM
The ‘Get it done’ PM
(Fast, but at what cost?)
This project manager is focused on speed and ticking off deliverables. They do what’s asked, even if it means cutting corners.
Pros:
- Seen as a problem-solver who delivers under pressure.
- Often gets praised for ‘saving the day.’
- Keeps senior leaders happy, at least in the short term.
Cons:
- Risks get ignored until they become major problems.
- Teams burn out from relentless last-minute pressure.
- The project technically delivers, but adoption and value suffer.
Example: A system goes live early, but business and tech ops handover was rushed. The business faces backlash, and project success is undermined.
The ‘Get it done right’ PM
(Strategic, but can face resistance)
This project manager balances delivery with long-term success. They challenge unrealistic expectations and focus on outcomes, not just deadlines.
Pros:
- Delivers sustainable, high-quality solutions.
- Protects their team from burnout and unrealistic pressure.
- Builds trust with stakeholders by managing expectations.
Cons:
- Might be seen as ‘slowing things down.’
- Can face pushback from leadership demanding quick wins.
- Requires strong communication skills to influence decision-makers.
Example: A PM refuses to cut testing time despite leadership pressure. The result? A stable system launch with high adoption and minimal rework.
Which Project Manager do you want to be?
It’s easy to fall into the ‘Get It Done’ mindset, especially when senior leaders reward speed. But real project success isn’t just about deadlines, it’s about delivering value.
The best PM's don’t just deliver projects. They shape how projects are delivered, balancing speed with quality and pushing for the right outcomes.
Ask yourself: Are you building a reputation as a project manager who delivers fast… or one who delivers right?
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