Sometimes projects land on your desk and suddenly you are the manager. I’ve been there more than once, stepping into roles without a title or a plan. At first, it feels overwhelming, but that’s also where the growth happens.
The key is to focus on clarity. Start by understanding the goal, the stakeholders, and the constraints. Break the work into manageable chunks and identify early wins. Those small wins build confidence for you and your team.
Communication becomes your lifeline. Regular check-ins, honest updates, and setting expectations early prevent confusion and friction. I also lean on my team’s expertise. You don’t have to know everything; you just need to guide people to bring their best.
Finally, reflect on what worked and what didn’t. Every accidental project manager learns fast. Embrace the chaos, but build a structure around it, and you’ll find that these projects often teach you more than the ones you planned.