A project manager observes that a highly experienced and technically proficient team member consistently struggles to accept constructive criticism from peers, often becoming defensive. This behavior is starting to hinder team collaboration. What is the BEST approach for the project manager to address this situation?
- APublicly address the team member's defensiveness during the next team meeting to set an example.
- BImplement a formal peer review process with anonymous feedback submissions to minimize direct confrontation.
- CSchedule a private conversation with the team member to discuss the impact of their reactions and offer coaching on active listening.
- DReassign the team member to tasks that require less collaboration to avoid further conflict.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Schedule a private conversation with the team member to discuss the impact of their reactions and offer coaching on active listening.
Addressing sensitive behavioral issues requires a private, constructive approach. Publicly shaming the individual would be counterproductive. Anonymous feedback doesn't address the root cause of defensiveness. Reassignment avoids the problem instead of solving it. A private conversation allows the project manager to practice emotional intelligence by understanding the team member's perspective and coaching them on improving their response to feedback.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Publicly shaming a team member is unprofessional and likely to worsen defensiveness and damage team morale.
- B. While anonymous feedback might reduce direct confrontation, it doesn't help the team member develop the emotional intelligence needed to handle criticism constructively.
- D. Reassigning the team member avoids addressing the underlying behavioral issue and could be perceived as punitive, potentially leading to disengagement.
Promote Team Performance (Emotional Intelligence)
Applying emotional intelligence principles to foster a positive team environment, manage interpersonal dynamics, and enhance overall team effectiveness.
- Includes self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills.
- Helps manage conflict and improve communication.
- Builds trust and psychological safety within the team.
Memory trick: EQ makes the team go 'we!'