In the fast-paced world of project management, where deadlines loom and tasks pile up, the concept of "presence" might seem like a luxury. But in my experience, it’s one of the most powerful tools we have—not only for managing projects but also for truly connecting as mentors.
Presence means being fully engaged and attentive in each moment, with the people, tasks, and challenges right in front of us. It’s about setting aside distractions, tuning in to the energy of the moment, and listening deeply. And while presence sounds simple, it can be transformative in both project and mentoring settings.
Why Presence Matters in Project Management
In project management, presence enables us to respond rather than react. When we’re fully present, we see the bigger picture and can make decisions that reflect our values and goals, not just the pressures of the moment. Presence allows us to:
Recognize early signs of issues – By tuning in, we catch subtle cues that something might be off before it becomes a full-blown problem.
Build trust within the team – When we’re present in conversations, team members feel valued and heard, which fosters a culture of openness.
Adapt with clarity – Projects change constantly, and being present helps us stay calm and grounded, making it easier to adjust plans without losing focus.
The Role of Presence in Mentoring
In mentoring, presence becomes a gift to both the mentor and the mentee. It means setting aside any preconceived notions and really listening, allowing the mentee to feel seen and supported. This depth of engagement can create profound impacts in several ways:
Deep listening – Being fully present lets us hear what’s said—and what’s unsaid. It allows us to respond to our mentee’s needs, even when they’re not directly voiced.
Creating a safe space – A mentor who is genuinely present offers a sense of safety, encouraging the mentee to open up and explore their challenges without judgment.
Offering meaningful guidance – Instead of jumping to advice, presence allows us to offer guidance that resonates, taking into account the mentee’s unique journey and potential.
Practical Ways to Cultivate Presence
Building presence takes intentional practice, but with a few mindful strategies, it becomes a natural part of your project and mentoring approach.
Start meetings with a brief pause – Before diving into tasks, take a few moments for everyone to settle in. This pause creates a shared sense of calm and prepares everyone to be fully present.
Practice active listening – Engage with what’s being said, without formulating a response right away. This approach deepens understanding and lets others know their input is genuinely valued.
Focus on one task at a time – Multitasking is the enemy of presence. By focusing on one thing, you bring quality and thoughtfulness to each interaction, whether it’s a project check-in or a mentoring session.
Regularly check in with yourself – A few deep breaths throughout the day can help you reconnect and re-center, especially when things get busy. It’s a simple but powerful way to keep yourself grounded.
The Impact of Presence
In both project management and mentoring, presence is more than just a skill—it’s a way of being that fosters trust, clarity, and deeper connections. By being fully present, we set an example of calm, engaged leadership that inspires others. Whether guiding a project or supporting a mentee, presence allows us to bring our best selves to each moment, leading with empathy and strength.
For anyone balancing the worlds of project management and mentoring, I encourage you to explore the power of presence. You might find that by simply showing up with intention and attention, you can make a profound difference in the lives of others—and in your own professional journey.