CSM Leadership & Team Management 2

Question 1

A software manager notices that two senior developers have ongoing interpersonal conflicts affecting team morale. What is the BEST first step?

Accepted Answer

Facilitate a private mediation session between the two developers

Answer

Facilitating mediation addresses the root cause directly while maintaining team cohesion and giving both parties a voice.

Question 2

Which leadership style is MOST effective when managing highly experienced software engineers who require little supervision?

Accepted Answer

Delegative (laissez-faire) leadership

Answer

Delegative leadership empowers experienced professionals by granting autonomy, which increases motivation and leverages their expertise.

Question 3

A software project manager is using the Tuckman model. The team is currently arguing about processes and roles. Which stage is the team in?

Accepted Answer

Storming

Answer

The Storming stage is characterized by interpersonal conflict, debate over roles, and resistance to authority as the team establishes dynamics.

Question 4

When setting performance goals for software team members, which framework is considered best practice?

Accepted Answer

SMART goal framework

Answer

SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) provide clear, trackable targets that align individual effort with organizational objectives.

Question 5

A manager wants to increase intrinsic motivation among software developers. Which approach aligns with Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory?

Accepted Answer

Offering more challenging and meaningful work assignments

Answer

Herzberg identified achievement, recognition, and meaningful work as motivators (intrinsic), while salary and perks are hygiene factors that prevent dissatisfaction but don't motivate.

(CSM) Certified Software Manager Practice Test

(CSM) Certified Software Manager Practice Test

CSM Leadership & Team Management 2