In preparing for the yearly performance appraisal meetings, Ellen Jones’ new supervisor noted that Ellen had an unusual increase in the number of absences and reported late to work on at least six occasions during the previous year. Up until this point, Ellen, an employee at the organization for 3 years, had received good, but not outstanding, evaluations. What should the supervisor do?

A. Talk to Ellen as soon as possible and determine if this was due to some temporary problem or one that is likely to continue B. Talk with Ellen’s previous supervisor and/or her peers see if they are aware of any problems C. Talk with Ellen about this when she comes in for her performance appraisal next month D. Talk to Ellen about seeing a counselor as her attitude toward work seems to have taken a turn for the worse