CSJT Communicating and Influencing Others Questions and Answers

Question 1

You are presenting a new digital service proposal to a group of senior stakeholders.
One influential member of the group is known to be skeptical of technology-based solutions and repeatedly raises concerns about potential data security risks.
Which of the following is the most effective approach to influence this stakeholder?

Accepted Answer

Acknowledge their concerns as valid and present a detailed, evidence-based risk mitigation plan from a reputable cybersecurity expert.

Answer

Politely disagree with their assessment and focus the conversation on the significant cost-saving benefits of the new service.

Answer

Arrange a private meeting with them after the presentation to try and win their support on a personal level.

Answer

Highlight that all other senior leaders are in favor of the proposal to create a sense of consensus.

Question 2

You need to communicate a complex and unpopular policy change to your team. The change is necessary due to new legislation, but you anticipate it will be met with frustration. What should be your primary communication objective?

Accepted Answer

To present the message with empathy, clearly explaining the non-negotiable reasons for the change while actively listening to their concerns.

Answer

To deliver the information as quickly and briefly as possible to minimize the period of disruption.

Answer

To focus exclusively on the positive long-term outcomes of the change, downplaying any immediate negative impacts.

Answer

To delegate the announcement to a junior team member to test their communication skills under pressure.

Question 3

Which of the following actions best demonstrates the principle of 'active listening' in a professional setting?

Accepted Answer

Paraphrasing what the speaker has said and asking clarifying questions to ensure understanding.

Answer

Waiting for the other person to finish speaking before formulating your own counter-argument.

Answer

Nodding and maintaining eye contact while the other person is talking.

Answer

Relating the speaker's points back to your own personal experiences to show that you can empathize.

Question 4

You are leading a cross-departmental working group. One department's representative is very quiet and rarely contributes during meetings, yet you know they have valuable expertise. What is the most effective way to encourage their participation?

Accepted Answer

Speak to them privately before the next meeting, explain the specific area where their input would be valued, and ask if they would be comfortable sharing their thoughts.

Answer

Publicly call on them in the next meeting and ask for their direct opinion on a complex issue.

Answer

Assume they are not interested and focus on getting contributions from the more vocal members of the group.

Answer

Send an email to their line manager suggesting they are not engaging fully with the working group's objectives.

Question 5

In the context of Civil Service Behaviours, what is the primary purpose of adapting your communication style to your audience?

Accepted Answer

To ensure your message is received, understood, and has the greatest possible impact.

Answer

To demonstrate superior linguistic and intellectual ability to senior colleagues.

Answer

To use complex, technical jargon to prove your subject matter expertise.

Answer

To make sure every communication is as brief as possible, regardless of the topic.

Question 6

You have written a detailed report that contains a significant amount of data. You need to present the key findings to a time-poor senior management board. What is the most effective communication strategy?

Accepted Answer

Create a concise presentation that uses clear visuals, such as charts and graphs, to highlight the most critical findings and recommendations.

Answer

Read the full executive summary aloud to the board to ensure no details are missed.

Answer

Send the full report to the board members an hour before the meeting and ask them to come prepared with questions.

Answer

Provide a verbal-only briefing without slides to encourage a more dynamic and interactive conversation.