When conducting an interview to discuss unsatisfactory aspects of a generally satisfactory employee's work, what is the most effective opening?

• A. Tell him that his work is completely unsatisfactory
• B. Start the interview by making, if possible, some favorable comment about his work
• C. Indicate briefly what is wrong and close the interview
• D. Tell him you don't want him to be upset but that you have received a complaint

Answer: (B)

Starting with a favorable comment sets a constructive tone for the conversation. When addressing areas for improvement in someone who is generally performing well, acknowledging what they do well first helps reduce defensiveness and makes them more receptive to feedback. It signals that the goal is development, not punishment, and it builds a collaborative atmosphere in which specific, actionable steps can be discussed.

Bluntly stating that the work is unsatisfactory is likely to trigger defensiveness and shut down open dialogue. Briefly outlining what is wrong and then closing the interview misses the chance to guide improvement and establish clear next steps. Bringing up a complaint from someone else can feel punitive and shifts attention to external judgments rather than the employee’s own performance and development.