Project Management Professional (PMP)® Examination Content OutlinePeopleMedium
A project manager observes that a junior team member is consistently struggling with a specific, complex technical task, despite having received initial training. This is causing delays and impacting the quality of a critical deliverable. The team member appears reluctant to ask for help, fearing it will reflect poorly on their abilities. What is the MOST effective way for the project manager to support this team member's performance?
- ADocument the performance issue in an official performance review, highlighting the need for improvement.
- BReassign the complex task to a more experienced team member to ensure timely completion and quality.
- CEncourage the team member to spend more time on self-study and online tutorials to resolve the issue independently.
- DProvide additional, targeted one-on-one coaching and offer a safe space for the team member to ask questions and seek clarification.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Provide additional, targeted one-on-one coaching and offer a safe space for the team member to ask questions and seek clarification.
The team member is struggling and reluctant to ask for help due to fear. Providing targeted one-on-one coaching in a supportive environment directly addresses the skill gap and builds confidence, encouraging them to seek help without fear of judgment. This directly supports their performance and development.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Documenting performance issues without first offering support would likely demotivate the team member further and damage trust.
- B. Reassigning the task avoids addressing the team member's development need and can demotivate them.
- C. Self-study alone won't address the fear of asking questions or provide the specific, interactive guidance needed for a complex task they're already struggling with.
Support Team Performance
Providing the necessary resources, guidance, feedback, and encouragement to enable team members to perform their roles effectively, overcome challenges, and continuously improve.
- Involves identifying skill gaps and providing targeted training.
- Fosters a supportive and psychologically safe environment.
- Offers constructive feedback and recognition.
- Removes impediments to team productivity.
Memory trick: Give them a hand, not just a demand.