Marcus becomes acting supervisor while already dating someone on his team. Two days after disclosing the relationship, he assigns her to lead a consequential, time-sensitive project.

Her relevant client experience and comparatively light workload may support the selection. But Marcus did not document a candidate comparison, and at least one plausible alternative was not asked about his availability.

Janellys and Rook examine what the record establishes, what remains assumed, how the organization should independently review the assignment, and what safeguards are needed when a personal relationship intersects with supervisory authority.

Watch the full video episode:
https://youtu.be/0v37bAF7tSg

Companion tool:
Potential Conflict of Interest Decision Workbook

Explore free Decision, Planning, and Review Tools:
https://ithinkwemissedastep.com

Text STEP to 833-451-3427 to learn more about I Think We Missed a Step, LLC.

This episode examines a simulated workplace case. The people, organizations, and identifying details are fictional.

This session examines a simulated workplace case created for discussion. The people, organizations, and identifying details are fictional.

Nia works at an assisted-living residence where the monthly schedule appears in the official workforce portal, but last-minute changes are also shared through a private manager group chat she cannot access. After missed schedule changes lead to escalating attendance warnings, Janellys and Rook examine what the record supports, what was assumed, what may be missing, and what should happen next.

Watch the video episode:
https://youtu.be/rg5ZCrQjRjg

For free decision, planning, and review tools, text STEP to (833) 451-3427—that’s (833) 451-DIBS.

Learn more:
https://ithinkwemissedastep.com

Most organizational problems don’t start where they show up.

They start earlier — in unclear decisions, unspoken assumptions, and processes that were never fully aligned with the work being done.

I Think We Missed a Step is a professional series that helps leaders and organizations identify where breakdowns actually begin — and what needs to be clarified to prevent them from repeating.

If your team, program, or organization keeps running into the same issues, this series is designed to help you see the system differently.

New sessions every Tuesday.

Learn more at IThinkWeMissedAStep.com