You know that your performance has recently declined. You tie this decline to the new software. Even though you fully understand how to use the new software, you think the software is garbage

In fact, you campaigned against the software but lost the political battle. Your boss has called you into her office. What would be the most correct response for the boss to use?
A) "You need to either shape up or ship out. The software stays!"
B) "Don't worry ... everything will work out. Just give it time."
C) "I can help you do this better."
D) "You do recognize there is a problem, don't you?"

Answer: D
Explanation: A) Incorrect. This is not a supportive response. It invalidates your concerns and shows disrespect. The correct response is a counseling approach that is geared toward helping you understand that a problem exists.
B) Incorrect. This response does not address your concerns or the underlying problem. It ignores them. The correct response is a counseling approach that is geared toward helping you understand that a problem exists.
C) Incorrect. This response is more suited to a coaching situation, one in which the employee's abilities are in question. Here, you fully understand how to use the software and your abilities are not questioned. The problem lies with your attitude. The correct response is a counseling approach that is geared toward helping you understand that a problem exists.
D) Correct. Here, you fully understand how to use the software and your abilities are not questioned. The problem lies with your attitude. The correct response is a counseling approach that is geared toward helping you understand that a problem exists.