Project Management Professional (PMP)® Examination Content OutlinePeopleEasy
A project manager observes that a long-standing project team, despite having excellent technical skills, frequently misses deadlines due to internal communication breakdowns and a lack of proactive problem-solving. Team members often wait for instructions rather than taking initiative. Which of the following leadership approaches should the project manager prioritize to address this situation?
- AAdopting a directive leadership style to provide clear instructions and enforce strict adherence to schedules.
- BTransitioning to a servant leadership approach, focusing on removing obstacles and fostering team autonomy.
- CEncouraging a laissez-faire leadership style, allowing the team complete freedom to self-organize and resolve issues.
- DImplementing a transactional leadership style, offering bonuses for on-time delivery and penalties for delays.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Transitioning to a servant leadership approach, focusing on removing obstacles and fostering team autonomy.
The team possesses technical skills but lacks initiative and has communication breakdowns. A servant leadership approach focuses on supporting the team, removing impediments, and empowering them to take ownership, which directly addresses these issues. This approach fosters a more collaborative and proactive environment.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A directive style might further stifle initiative and not address communication root causes.
- C. Laissez-faire would likely exacerbate the issues, as the team is already struggling with autonomy and proactive problem-solving.
- D. Transactional leadership focuses on rewards/punishments, which might not resolve underlying communication or initiative problems long-term.
Servant Leadership
A leadership philosophy where the leader's primary goal is to serve the team and stakeholders, prioritizing their growth, well-being, and autonomy, thereby empowering them to achieve project objectives.
- Focuses on supporting and empowering the team.
- Removes obstacles and impediments for the team.
- Encourages initiative and self-organization.
- Prioritizes team growth and well-being.
Memory trick: Servant leaders help their team serve success, not just themselves.