Supervisory Test Skills Knowledge 2

Question 1

A supervisor notices that two employees are in ongoing conflict that is reducing team productivity. What is the MOST appropriate first step?

Accepted Answer

Meet with each employee separately to understand their perspectives

Answer

Meeting individually with each employee first allows the supervisor to gather unbiased information before facilitating a resolution.

Question 2

Which leadership style is BEST suited for a new employee who is enthusiastic but lacks job-specific skills?

Accepted Answer

Telling/directing

Answer

A telling/directing style provides new employees with clear instructions they need when they lack the skills to work independently.

Question 3

When setting performance goals for employees, a supervisor should ensure goals are SMART. What does the 'M' in SMART stand for?

Accepted Answer

Measurable

Answer

Measurable means the goal has concrete criteria so progress and achievement can be objectively tracked.

Question 4

An employee consistently arrives 15 minutes late. The supervisor has spoken informally twice. What is the appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Issue a formal written warning following progressive discipline procedures

Answer

Progressive discipline requires escalating to a formal written warning after informal counseling has not resolved the issue.

Question 5

Which communication technique is MOST effective when giving critical feedback to an employee?

Accepted Answer

Focusing on the behavior, not the person

Answer

Focusing on specific behaviors rather than personal attributes keeps feedback objective and reduces defensiveness.

Supervisory Test Practice Test