Project Management Professional (PMP)® Examination Content OutlinePeopleMedium
A project manager observes that a highly skilled and experienced team member consistently struggles to meet deadlines and often appears overwhelmed, despite being very capable. Other team members are starting to notice and express frustration. The project manager suspects the team member is taking on too much work or is struggling with prioritization. To effectively support this team member's performance and alleviate team tension, what should the project manager do FIRST?
- AImplement a strict time-tracking system for all team members to monitor productivity.
- BPublicly announce a new policy on accountability and consequences for missed deadlines.
- CReassign some of the struggling team member's tasks to other, less busy team members.
- DSchedule a private, one-on-one meeting with the team member to understand the root causes of the struggle.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Schedule a private, one-on-one meeting with the team member to understand the root causes of the struggle.
Scheduling a private, one-on-one meeting is the best first step. This allows the project manager to empathetically understand the specific challenges the team member is facing without causing public embarrassment, which is crucial for identifying the root cause and providing appropriate support.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A strict time-tracking system can create a negative, micromanaging environment and does not address the individual's specific struggles or build trust.
- B. Publicly announcing punitive policies will likely increase stress and demotivation, rather than encouraging the team member to seek help or improving their performance.
- C. Reassigning tasks without understanding the root cause might be a temporary fix but doesn't solve the underlying problem and could lead to resentment.
Support Team Performance
Actions taken by a project manager to help team members overcome obstacles, develop skills, maintain motivation, and achieve their full potential, ultimately contributing to project success.
- Requires active listening and empathy.
- Focuses on individual and collective growth.
- Involves coaching, mentoring, and resource provision.
Memory trick: Hear Them Out, Help Them Grow.