PMP Practice Question 101 - People
A project manager noticed that the functional manager is not cooperating with staff assignment schedules and is always finding excuses not to release the requested staff. What should the project manager do first?
- A.Evaluate the impact caused by the delay of forming the team and confront the functional manager.
- B.Ask the leadership team for help obtaining the needed staff.
- ✓ Correct C.Have a direct talk with the functional manager to understand the reasons behind their attitude.
- D.Check with human resources (HR) regarding the availability of staff.
Correct answer: C
Explanation
When a functional manager consistently refuses to release requested staff, the project manager should first have a direct talk with the functional manager to understand the reasons behind their attitude. Direct, private communication is the recommended approach for conflict resolution—understanding the root cause enables collaborative problem-solving. Evaluating the impact and confronting them (A) is more aggressive than necessary as a first step. Asking leadership for help (B) escalates before the PM has attempted direct resolution. Checking with HR about availability (D) investigates the problem indirectly without engaging the functional manager.
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