For the following management skills, which will a project manager use most?
A. Leading
B. Communicating
C. Influencing the organization
D. Negotiating
The correct answer and explanation is :
Correct Answer: B. Communicating
Explanation:
Among the listed management skills — Leading, Communicating, Influencing the Organization, and Negotiating — Communicating is the skill a project manager will use the most. Communication is the cornerstone of effective project management and is involved in nearly every aspect of a project.
Project managers are responsible for ensuring that all stakeholders are informed, aligned, and engaged throughout the project lifecycle. This requires constant communication — both formal and informal — with the project team, sponsors, clients, and other stakeholders. According to the PMBOK® Guide (Project Management Body of Knowledge) published by the Project Management Institute (PMI), project managers spend approximately 90% of their time communicating. This includes delivering project updates, clarifying requirements, resolving issues, and managing expectations.
Effective communication helps ensure that:
- Project objectives are understood by everyone involved.
- Team collaboration is smooth and productive.
- Risks and issues are identified and addressed promptly.
- Decisions are well-informed and timely.
- Stakeholder engagement is maintained throughout the project.
Communication occurs in various forms — written (emails, reports), verbal (meetings, presentations), and non-verbal (body language, tone). It also involves active listening, feedback, and adapting the message to suit the audience’s level of understanding and interest.
While other skills such as Leading, Influencing the organization, and Negotiating are also critical for a project manager’s success, they often rely heavily on strong communication skills to be effective. For example, you cannot lead a team effectively or negotiate with stakeholders unless you can communicate your points clearly and persuasively.
In summary, communication is the thread that ties all other project management activities together, making it the most frequently used and arguably the most vital skill for a project manager.