The questions which follow provide a basic knowledge test of selected concepts covered in this learning pathway:
Soft Skills in Management.
The questions published at the end of each learning pathway are re-used for the knowledge test for learners interested in earning a digital badge or certificate of participation for the Introduction to Management (PMAN101) micro-course. Please consult the Certify participation page for more information.
Indicate whether the following statements are true or false:
- Mathematical and technical skills are more important to a manager than soft skills.
- True
- No. Soft skills are more important as the key roles of a manager.
- False
- Correct. Soft skills are more important as the key roles of a manager.
- Managers can influence employees by their attitudes and everyday actions.
- True
- False
- No. Managers can be very influential in workplace.
- Managers should be good role models who are willing to mentor employees to succeed at their jobs.
- True
- False
- No. Effective managers set a positive example for employees.
- Managers should collaborate with senior executives but not other employees.
- True
- No. Managers should collaborate with all stakeholders.
- False
- Correct. Managers should collaborate with all stakeholders.
Multiple choice questions
- Which THREE of the following are soft skills? (Select all that apply - there are three correct answers)
- Active listening
- Yes. It is very important to show respect for others' ideas and opinions.
- Being a good team player
- Yes. It is important to work well with others.
- Interpreting spreadsheet data
- Incorrect. This is not a soft skill.
- Giving constructive criticism
- Yes. It is important to convey criticism in a respectful and helpful manner.
- Which THREE of the following are effective ways to motivate employees? (Select all that apply - there are three correct answers)
- Assert leadership during meeting discussions
- Incorrect. Important to give others a chance to speak during meetings and listen to them.
- Provide opportunities for growth
- Yes. Employees' appreciate the opportunity to continually increase their skills and knowledge.
- Help employees understand their impact on a company
- Yes. Employees are motivated when they know their contributions make a difference to the business.
- Create meaningful reward and recognition programs
- Yes. Employees are motivated when their contributions are appreciated and acknowledged.
- Which THREE of the following occur when a manager improves the way employees are treated? (Select all that apply - there are three correct answers)
- Performance level increases
- Yes. Workers give their best efforts on the job.
- Productivity increases.
- Yes. Employees work hard to produce goods and services for the business.
- Job satisfaction improves.
- Yes. Workers are happy with their jobs.
- Frequency of sick days remains constant.
- Incorrect. Workers like coming to work when they are treated well.
- What TWO things should a manager do to manage diversity in the workplace effectively? (Select all that apply - there are two correct answers)
- Only hire immigrants and refugees as employees
- Incorrect. The workforce should ideally be a reflection of society at large.
- Continuously recognize diversity and cultural preferences within the workforce
- Yes. Managers should appreciate that the workforce is increasingly becoming more diverse.
- Designate a special lunch room for all visible minority employees.
- Incorrect. Managers should help diverse workers integrate and get to know each other.
- Organize ongoing cultural training sessions for all employees.
- Yes. Managers need ongoing cultural training too.
