Monique manages Dan, who is always pressing for more responsibility and wants to be promoted.  Dan currently isn’t quite meeting the standards of his current job, but he’s an incredible technical expert.  He just needs to learn more about the company, and ensure his projects are more complete before a potential promotion.  He’s impatient and occasionally hints about leaving if something isn’t done.  Monique really wants to hold on to him, and is afraid that if she tells him no, that he’ll quit and he’s her best technical guy.   She knows that waiting only makes her more anxious and sends mixed signals to Dan, but she keeps avoiding having the conversation.

In Perspective Approach

• Interview Monique regarding Dan and his aspirations for more work.  Help her determine if he’s working at the right level and ensure she’s clear on his goals.
• Help her identify exactly what she needs from him and how to make productive requests without avoiding or worrying that it will cause Dan to leave.
• Help Monique formulate her communication with Dan. Ensure she is able to help Dan take on developing himself and in clearly seeing his path.
• Help them set measureable goals and track progress.