Feedback Exercise Scenarios

Scenario One

An older, more experienced manager is in conflict with a younger employee who “socializes constantly” with co-workers. This is particularly disturbing when it happens during quiet time, when employees are supposed to focus on their work without being disturbed.  The employee is popular and carries a lot of influence with her co-workers.  The older manager is justifiable concerned that all the socialization by the employee is reducing productivity.

Scenario Two

An employee who collects data from other, higher ranking co-workers in the organization and compiles the data into critical monthly reports is having some trouble.  One of the higher level co-workers has been negligent about giving the employee the needed data on time. So the employee decides to ask you for help. You have scheduled an appointment to talk with the negligent employee.

Scenario Three

The Budget manager is responsible for forecasting personnel expenses over the next two quarters.  Halfway through the first quarter, expenses are running ahead of forecasts.  The Budget Manager is concerned that they may not meet their budget projections. The Director, for his part, is furious that the Budget Manager has once again botched his forecasts.  The Director wants the Budget Manager to take responsibility and devise a more accurate forecasting method so his department is not burdened with last minute scrambling to meet budget projections.