A boss yells at an employee. What are the risks and benefits for each of these employee responses to the situation?

A. Say, “Wait. Before you continue, I don’t think everyone heard you yelling. Bob, Ann, Mark, come here. Jean has something to say to me.”

B. Apologize for something you didn’t do and quietly stew about the unfairness of the situation.

C. Wait until the manager is out of earshot and say to the group, “Someone had too much caffeine today.”

D. Acknowledge the error and get back to work.

E. Say to the manager, “I won’t be yelled at. If you have something to say, act professionally, and then I’ll listen to you. It’s okay; I’ll wait.”

F. Attempt to diffuse with humor, “Dang. I lost that $5. I bet someone that I wouldn’t get yelled at before noon!”

G. Do an impersonation of the manager as soon as she leaves for those who missed the show.

H. Ask the manager to explain the unfair criticisms in private and when calmer.