International Project Management Association (IPMA) Practice Exam

Which type of behavior from the project manager is most likely to help produce a successful project?

1. Uses business stories to reinforce important points

2. Creates stress in order to ensure high productivity

3. Minimizes the importance of cultural differences

4. Uses humor to deflect criticism

The correct answer is: Uses business stories to reinforce important points

The most effective behavior for a project manager in achieving project success is the use of business stories to reinforce important points. This approach helps convey complex information in a relatable and engaging manner, ensuring that team members and stakeholders understand key concepts, values, and objectives clearly. Storytelling can enhance team cohesion and stimulate motivation by illustrating the rationale behind project goals and encouraging a shared vision. Furthermore, it fosters an inclusive environment that promotes open communication, making team members more likely to contribute and collaborate effectively. In contrast, creating stress to ensure high productivity can be counterproductive, as excessive pressure may lead to burnout, decreased morale, and reduced overall performance within the team. Minimizing the importance of cultural differences disregards the diverse backgrounds and perspectives of team members, potentially leading to misunderstandings and conflicts. Using humor to deflect criticism may provide a temporary shield against negative feedback but does not address underlying issues, which could hinder the project's long-term success and improvement. Therefore, leveraging storytelling emerges as the most constructive approach in project management.