A project manager is leading a diverse, cross-functional team. During critical decision-making meetings, the project manager notices that one highly analytical team member frequently dominates discussions with detailed technical arguments, while other equally important stakeholders, particularly from the business side, become disengaged and quiet. This imbalance is leading to suboptimal decisions that lack business perspective. To promote team performance through the application of emotional intelligence, what should the project manager do?
- AExclude the highly analytical team member from future decision-making meetings to create space for others.
- BImplement a structured meeting agenda that allocates specific time for each stakeholder group to present their perspectives.
- CDirectly instruct the analytical team member to speak less and allow others to contribute more.
- DFacilitate the meeting by actively inviting input from quieter stakeholders and acknowledging their contributions, while also gently moderating the dominant member.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Facilitate the meeting by actively inviting input from quieter stakeholders and acknowledging their contributions, while also gently moderating the dominant member.
Facilitating the meeting by actively inviting input from quieter stakeholders and gently moderating the dominant member demonstrates emotional intelligence. This approach leverages social awareness and relationship management to balance contributions, ensure all perspectives are heard, and lead to more holistic decisions.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Excluding a highly analytical, important team member is counterproductive, as their technical insights are valuable, and it could lead to resentment and a loss of expertise.
- B. While a structured agenda helps, it might not fully address the dynamic of a dominant personality unless actively facilitated, and could still allow for disengagement.
- C. Directly instructing the team member without explanation can be perceived as confrontational and may cause resentment, impacting morale.
Promote Team Performance through Emotional Intelligence
Applying emotional intelligence competencies (self-awareness, self-regulation, social awareness, relationship management) to understand and manage emotions within the team, foster collaboration, and optimize team effectiveness.
- Enhances communication and conflict resolution.
- Builds trust and psychological safety.
- Leads to more inclusive and effective decision-making.
Memory trick: Feel the Vibe, Guide the Talk, Get All Views.