How to Take Ownership of a Project

by Laurie Brenner
Taking project ownership sets you apart as a leader.

Taking project ownership sets you apart as a leader.

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In today's constantly changing business world, taking ownership of a project helps you to stand out in the crowd. Enterprising people -- those who step up to the plate and accept responsibility -- are the people too valuable to lose during company layoffs. Taking project ownership displays your leadership qualities; it lets supervisors know that you can lead and be a team player. It shows you're willing to do what it takes to get the job done.


Stand up and take responsibility for the project. Volunteer to lead the project to completion. Work with your supervisor to assign team members to work with you to complete the various aspects of the project. Let your supervisor know that you're there to help. Supervisors usually have a lot on their plates; taking project ownership displays your leadership qualities and helps out your boss.


Create an outline of the project's goals and objectives. List the steps that require completion to ensure project success.


Gather information. Complete the research to understand all the parameters of the project. Work with your team if there are multiple areas that require research.


Create a project timeline. Develop a schedule that includes the dates when specific project aspects require completion. Some tasks in a project require completion before other tasks can begin. Schedule project tasks accordingly.


Assign tasks and duties to project team members. With your supervisor's approval, assemble a project team to complete the project. Being a leader also means being a team player. Include yourself when assigning tasks and duties. Camaraderie among team members is created when all team members are treated equally, regardless of their positions or roles.


Develop reports. Build a reporting structure that keeps everyone on the team in the loop as to the project status. Create reports for your supervisor to review that make it easy for her to stay apprised of project goals, completed tasks and objectives. If you have a shared network drive, create a spreadsheet that lists the project status on the drive. Provide access to all team members.


Hold regular project meetings. Set a schedule that includes weekly meetings throughout the course of the project. Project meetings allow communication between team members and avoid duplication of efforts.


Avoid taking the credit for the project. Highlight the efforts of your team members who made the project a success. True leaders aren't worried about receiving all the credit; they let others take center stage. Foster goodwill among your project team by recognizing those who contributed to the project's success.

Things Needed

  • Spreadsheet program


  • People appreciate good leaders. Good leaders provide guidance; they don't just tell people what to do. Display confidence and kindness but be firm about project deadlines. Share your vision but be willing to let team members to disagree with you. A difference of opinions or a different viewpoint has much to contribute to the project's success.


  • Remember that when you take ownership of a project, it doesn't mean that you are the boss. Work with your team and be willing to take input. Make it a group project.

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