What is an appropriate way for a company officer to help a subordinate seeking career advice?

• A. Counseling the subordinate about substance abuse and absenteeism
• B. Offering to help the subordinate investigate all possibilities of advancement
• C. Recommending the subordinate investigate other jobs with better benefits or wages
• D. Requesting an impromptu evaluation session to evaluate the subordinate during their daily activities

Answer: (B)

Help a subordinate move forward by taking a mentoring role and guiding them to explore every viable path to advancement. The best approach is to work with them to identify internal promotions, additional training, specialized assignments, and education that can broaden their qualifications. This supports their career goals, helps them build a concrete development plan, and aligns their growth with the department’s needs. It reflects the leadership responsibility to develop staff and fosters trust and engagement.

Other options miss the mark because they either address a separate issue (substance abuse and absenteeism) instead of career planning, encourage seeking external jobs for better pay or benefits (which can undermine loyalty and organizational growth), or push for an impromptu evaluation of daily activities (which is invasive and not appropriate for career guidance).