International Project Management Association (IPMA) Practice Exam

What is an effective way for a project manager to demonstrate leadership?

1. By micromanaging the team

2. By actively listening to team feedback

3. By isolating themselves from team discussions

4. By taking all decisions independently

The correct answer is: By actively listening to team feedback

An effective way for a project manager to demonstrate leadership is by actively listening to team feedback. This approach fosters an inclusive work environment where team members feel valued and their opinions matter. Active listening involves understanding and considering the perspectives and ideas contributed by team members, which can lead to better decision-making and enhanced team cohesion. When a project manager listens to feedback, it encourages open communication, promotes collaboration, and helps build trust within the team. This practice not only empowers team members but also enables the project manager to gather diverse insights and perspectives, which can lead to innovative solutions and improved project outcomes. Engaging with the team in this way demonstrates respect for their expertise and creates a more motivated and engaged workforce. Other approaches, such as micromanagement or isolating oneself from discussions, typically would not contribute positively to fostering strong leadership. They can create a culture of distrust or disengagement, which is counterproductive for team dynamics and project success. Similarly, making decisions independently without seeking input can lead to a lack of buy-in from the team, ultimately hindering collaboration and project effectiveness.