Project Management Professional (PMP) — Question 1319

A company is engaged in a transformation journey, and the project manager for this endeavor is new to this project. During one of the project status update meetings, a key stakeholder, the project manager's functional manager, is dissatisfied with the work in progress, and points to the project manager.

What should the project manager do?

Answer options

• A. Show the functional manager that the progress is on time based on the schedule.
• B. Admit that the functional manager is right and promise to rectify the situation immediately.
• C. Schedule a one-on-one meeting with the functional manager to prove the project is on time.
• D. Listen carefully and show understanding of the growing needs of the functional manager.

Correct answer: D

Explanation

The correct answer is D, as it emphasizes the importance of active listening and understanding stakeholder concerns, which can build trust and rapport. Options A and C focus on proving progress rather than addressing the stakeholder's concerns, while option B prematurely admits fault without seeking to understand the underlying issues.