Communication & Leadership Skills Flashcards

Which negotiation approach is most aligned with achieving a win-win outcome in a resource dispute between two scientific departments?

Answer: Interest-based negotiation, exploring the underlying needs of both parties

Interest-based (principled) negotiation, as described by Fisher and Ury, focuses on underlying needs rather than fixed positions to identify mutually beneficial solutions.

An STP scientist is asked to chair a multidisciplinary meeting for the first time. What is a key responsibility of an effective chair?

Answer: Ensure all agenda items are covered, manage time, and encourage balanced participation

An effective chair manages time, ensures inclusive discussion, and steers the group toward clear outcomes without dominating the conversation.

What is the key distinction between 'mentoring' and 'coaching' in a professional development context?

Answer: Mentoring involves sharing personal experience and guidance; coaching uses questioning to unlock the individual's own solutions

Mentoring typically involves a more experienced person sharing wisdom and guidance, while coaching uses non-directive questioning to develop the individual's own thinking.

A scientist leading a quality improvement project needs to communicate progress to a range of stakeholders monthly. Which tool is most appropriate for tracking and conveying project status?

Answer: A RAG (Red/Amber/Green) status report with key milestone summaries

RAG status reports provide a concise, visually clear summary of project progress that is accessible to a wide range of stakeholders with varying levels of detail required.

During a presentation, an audience member asks a question the presenting scientist cannot answer. What is the most appropriate response?

Answer: Acknowledge the gap, commit to finding the answer, and follow up after the session

Acknowledging knowledge gaps honestly and committing to follow up maintains credibility and demonstrates scientific integrity.

Which element of emotional intelligence (Goleman) is demonstrated when a scientist recognises their own frustration during a stressful experiment and manages it before interacting with the team?

Answer: Self-regulation

Self-regulation is the ability to control or redirect disruptive emotions, preventing impulsive reactions and maintaining professional behaviour.

What is the purpose of a RACI matrix in project leadership?

Answer: To clarify roles by defining who is Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed for each task

A RACI matrix eliminates ambiguity by explicitly mapping team members' roles across all project tasks, preventing duplication and gaps in accountability.