Exam 11: Communicating in the Workplace

The "lone genius" idea, concerning world-changing ideas developed singlehandedly, is in practice very rare. Which fact about group problem solving is more often the reason for important breakthroughs?

At which point in the four-stage development process that groups tend to go through would members back down from their earlier entrenched positions, and approach a consensus that one of the ideas they have been discussing is the best so far?

When you have everyone on your team agree on clear guidelines for high-quality work, and provide feedback at each step, you are implementing which guideline to guarantee that all team-members are doing their fair share of the work?

Estefan is in a research discovery group at work. Together they have made a major scientific breakthrough. They could not have achieved this individually. What statement best characterizes this particular advantage of group problem-solving?

Felicia and two other people often see each other at the library. They come to the library every Thursday night to discuss English literature. Felicia is often friendly to the other people at the library on Thursday nights. Another group meets Monday, which Felicia does not usually attend. Which part of this description shows group interaction?

The personal motives of each member are called _______ goals.

Why shouldn't you overshare at work?

Why is it true that, in most cases, groups can produce higher-quality solutions than individuals working alone?

Captain Billows is the meteorologist in his squadron. The squadron controls an outlying airfield. When they are asked whether Friday evening will be a good night to receive air cargo, they refer to Captain Billows. What effective way to reach a group decision does this best exemplify?

What are the best communication strategies for potential leaders to adopt?

Gavin likes to talk to his coworkers about his political views. Many coworkers are troubled by his talk. What advice should be given to Gavin?

Chandra knows that if she makes a mistake on the supply budget again, her boss will likely fire her. This is an example of _______ power.

Roles explicitly assigned to particular members by an organization or group are called _______ roles.

Estelle is in a study group. The group has six members. They are all biology majors and have had many classes together. Everyone in her study group wants to make a good grade on their project. Anton wants to make the main decision about the topic, but Denise then says she does too. There is quite a bit of personal animosity between the two, which makes Estelle and the other group members a little reluctant to air their own opinions. They know that each of the group members have different preferences for communicating their ideas, so they often discuss ideas on an Internet message board as well as in class. Which part of this description indicates a way to make the most of diversity?

Gustav works with a difficult boss. His boss is a micromanager, so he often invites her input because he realizes there is little he can do to change her behavior. He often gratuitously complains about her behavior to his coworkers. Even though she is often negative, Gustav remains positive in the way he communicates towards her. What is the best way that he could respond to his difficult boss more appropriately?

The degree to which members feel connected with and committed to their group is called

Describe cohesiveness in groups.

Good communicators can flourish in the workplace. Social scientists have labeled this skill _______, the capacity to behave appropriately and effectively negotiate complex social relationships and environments.

Lindsey is part of a group that develops innovative technologies. Her group is very connected, and members are highly committed and express positive feelings for one another. Their group is called "The Dynamos," and they have their own logo. Members wear shirts with their group name every Friday. Lindsey's group is

A limited number of people whose members interact with one another over time in order to reach goals is called a