Leading Projects, People and Teams

Question 1

What is the difference between Hard and Soft skills?

Answer 1

Soft skills are people skills.
Hard skills are technical abilities easily quantifiable.

Question 2

Difference between coordination and management?

Answer 2

Coordination is arranging people and activities in order.
Management is exercising control.

Question 3

What are some management styles you are aware of?

Answer 3

Autocratic - Firm but fair.
Democratic - discussions are commonplace.
Laissez-Faire - hands-off and allow group members to make decisions.

Question 4

Key characteristics of a successful leader?

Answer 4

Promoting teamwork.
Decisive.
Strong negotiator.
Good listener.
Empathetic.
Integrity.

Question 5

What steps would you take to solve a key problem on a project?

Answer 5

Identify.
Analyse.
Describe.
Look for causes.
Develop solutions.
Implement.
Measure results.

Question 6

What is a RACI matrix?

Answer 6

Responsible
Accountable
Consulted
Informed
Shows responsibilities on a project.

Question 7

How would you deal with an underperforming team member?

Answer 7

Address privately.
Discuss issues and blockers.
Set targets for improvement.
Review progress after.
Escalate with manager.

Question 8

What is Hertzberg’s theory for motivating staff?

Answer 8

Defines job satisfaction and dissatisfaction.
Motivating factors.
Hygiene factors.

Question 9

What is McGregor’s theory in terms of motivating staff?

Answer 9

Theory X - If a person dislikes work then you will use an authoritarian style of work, involves micromanagement.
Theory Y - If a person takes pride in work, then you will adopt a participative style, where you trust members.

Question 10

Describe Maslow’s hierarchy of needs?

Answer 10

5 tiered.
Self-actualisation.
Esteem.
Belonging.
Safety.
Physiological.

Question 11

What motivates you as a project manager?

Answer 11

I enjoy seeing a project move from start to finish and being part of a tangible product, through meeting client needs.

Question 12

Does an employer have a duty of care to an employee?

Answer 12

Yes.
- Health and safety.
- Grievances addressed.
- Adequate equipment.
- Protecting from discrimination.
- Managing misconduct.

Question 13

What legislation applies to UK employment law?

Answer 13

H&S at work 1974
Equality Act 2010
GDPR (Data Protection Act 2018)