When poor performance is due to an employee's lack of ability, what is the least threatening option?

A) Release
B) Retrain
C) Resupply
D) Refit
E) Reassign

Answer: C
Explanation: A) Incorrect. Release is more commonly known as "firing" and should only be used as a last resort. The resupply option is correct because it allows the employee to express his or her frustration about a perception of inadequate support and signals the employer's willingness to help solve the problem from the employee's perspective.
B) Incorrect. Retraining an employee is the second least threatening option. However, it is still seen as seen as an attempt to solve a problem from the managerial (rather than employee) perspective. The resupply option is correct because it allows the employee to express his or her frustration about a perception of inadequate support and signals the employer's willingness to help solve the problem from the employee's perspective.
C) Correct. This assumes that the problem lies with management rather than with the employee. Few employees would be threatened by the conclusion that they have inadequate resources to complete the job.
D) Incorrect. Refitting may imply that an employee did not have enough natural ability to complete the assigned tasks. The resupply option is correct because it allows the employee to express his or her frustration about a perception of inadequate support and signals the employer's willingness to help solve the problem from the employee's perspective.
E) Incorrect. Reassignments can be demotions. The resupply option is correct because it allows the employee to express his or her frustration about a perception of inadequate support and signals the employer's willingness to help solve the problem from the employee's perspective.