Final answer:
Communication skills are considered the most important characteristic for a project manager, essential for effective collaboration, conflict resolution, and relationship building.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the authors, of all the characteristics desirable in a project manager, communication skills is the most important. The advertisements and scenarios provided emphasize the need for strong communication skills, showcasing that this ability is essential across various domains, including technical writing, managing collaborative projects, and leading teams. It's not only about disseminating information but also about building relationships, fostering teamwork, resolving conflicts, and being able to effectively collaborate with both internal and external stakeholders. Good communication ensures that ideas are aligned, sustainability is promoted, and that a project manager can be transparent and forthcoming in their interactions.
Technical expertise and leadership ability are valuable, but they must be complemented by excellent communication to be fully effective. Risk aversion is not as universally required, as some projects may require taking calculated risks. Therefore, communication skills are most integral to the role of a project manager.