3.3 Deep Dive: Leadership & Soft Skills in Action

Phase 3: Application – Principles and Domains Driving Professional Results

Effective project management transcends processes and tools; it hinges on leadership and interpersonal skills. The PMP exam heavily tests your judgment in these areas. (See Principle 6).

• Servant Leadership: Enable team success; ask "How can I help?" not "What have you done?". Shield team from distractions, remove impediments, coach/mentor, facilitate (not direct), build safety.
• Emotional Intelligence (EI): Self-Awareness (recognize own stress/bias), Self-Management (respond calmly), Social Awareness (perceive team mood, concerns), Relationship Management (build rapport, influence, give feedback, navigate disagreements). Understand and manage emotions in self and others.
• Communication: Tailor method based on need (richness, speed, formality, audience). Use visual aids (Info Radiators). Be clear, concise. Listen actively (paraphrase, clarify). Manage feedback constructively.
• Conflict Resolution: Understand levels. Choose style (Collaborate, Compromise, Accommodate/Smooth, Force/Direct, Avoid) based on context. Focus on issues, not people; seek common ground.
• Motivation: Address Hygiene Factors first. Focus on Motivators (Achievement, Recognition, Growth, Advancement, Responsibility).
• Negotiation: Prepare (BATNA - Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement). Focus on Interests, Not Positions. Generate Options. Use Objective Criteria. Aim for Win-Win.
• Influence: Use expertise, data, relationships, understanding needs, communication to guide decisions, especially without formal authority.
• Decision Making / Problem Solving: Use appropriate models, facilitate group decisions effectively. Employ structured approaches; use techniques like brainstorming, root cause analysis.