Judgement Test Question 64 – A colleague becomes defensive about feedback

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Read the scenario and rate every action independently. Several actions can receive the same rating.

Practice level: HEO/SEO

Scenario

Dan leads a weekly call with several delivery partners. He understands the technical work, but the loudest partner often dominates the discussion and quieter partners leave without their points being heard. Actions are then recorded unclearly. You have already given Dan a suggested agenda and explained how to bring people into the conversation. After the same problem happens again, Dan says, 'They are senior people. I cannot keep cutting them off, and whatever I do seems wrong.' The calls are running over and decisions are being delayed. You manage Dan and need to help him improve without taking the responsibility away from him.

Rate the actions

For each action, choose Counterproductive, Ineffective, Fairly Effective or Effective.

Action A

Ask Dan how he understood the earlier feedback and what makes the calls difficult. Agree specific techniques, observe the next call and review how they worked afterwards.

Rate this action:
CounterproductiveIneffectiveFairly EffectiveEffective

Action B

Take over the partner calls yourself until the project is complete, as the decisions are too important to delay.

Rate this action:
CounterproductiveIneffectiveFairly EffectiveEffective

Action C

Send Dan a detailed list of the problems and require him to follow a strict script at the next call.

Rate this action:
CounterproductiveIneffectiveFairly EffectiveEffective

Action D

Arrange for an experienced chair to co-chair the next meeting with Dan and explain the techniques they use.

Rate this action:
CounterproductiveIneffectiveFairly EffectiveEffective

Click to reveal the answer
  • Action A: Effective
  • Action B: Counterproductive
  • Action C: Fairly Effective
  • Action D: Fairly Effective

Members can unlock the detailed explanation for all four actions, including why each response helps, falls short or makes the situation worse.

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