If, as a supervisor, you find yourself in a position where your authority is not clear and well defined, the first thing you should do is to:

• A. Take hold hard and supervise the work and workers strictly
• B. Take it easy, regardless of output, in order to be on good terms with the other employees
• C. Make an outline of your responsibilities and submit it to your superior for approval
• D. Keeping an eye on the work until indefiniteness in assigning and announcing your responsibilities is cleared up by your superior

Answer: (C)

When you’re not sure where your authority begins and ends, the first priority is to establish a formal understanding of your role. Creating an outline of your responsibilities and submitting it to your supervisor for approval puts your authority on paper, clarifies what you’re empowered to decide and direct, and aligns you with the management chain. This proactive step prevents overstepping boundaries, reduces confusion among staff, and provides a documented basis for your actions moving forward. Waiting for the situation to resolve itself or trying to assert control without clear authority can lead to conflict and inefficiency, while taking a relaxed approach undermines accountability and productivity. So, outlining your responsibilities and obtaining approval is the best first move.