Which of the following is the most effective strategy for leaders to manage stress within their teams?

• A. Ignore signs of stress and focus solely on productivity
• B. Assign additional tasks to keep employees occupied
• C. Encourage open communication and provide support to team members
• D. Discourage breaks and promote continuous work without rest

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the impact of stress on team performance and well-being. Recognize that unmanaged stress can reduce productivity, increase errors, and harm mental health.
2. Step 2: Evaluate each strategy's potential effects on stress levels. Ignoring stress or assigning more tasks can increase pressure, while discouraging breaks can lead to burnout.
3. Step 3: Identify the benefits of encouraging open communication, which allows team members to express concerns and feel supported, reducing stress.
4. Step 4: Recognize that providing support includes offering resources, empathy, and flexibility, which helps team members manage stress effectively.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the most effective strategy is to encourage open communication and provide support, as it fosters a healthy work environment and improves overall team resilience.