You are the vice president of a computer sales company. You could save significant money by firing one of two employees who service the northwest region: Gary and Brenda. Gary is a long-time employee with an excellent sales record and a forceful demeanor. However, you and Gary have conflicted in the past when you rejected his request for a significant raise. Brenda has been struggling with her sales quotas lately, but is very popular amongst her co-workers. She has also been a quiet confident for key sales decisions. Evaluate whether you should layoff Brenda, Gary, or neither employee, and give the reasons for your decision.

Even if Gary has a better sales record, he seems to be unable to keep good personal relationships, both with coworkers and clients. This in the long-run could become more problematic and lead to a decline in sales record, and also, a decline in other areas.

Brenda, on the other hand, needs to improve her sales record, but she has strong interpersonal skills that give her an advatange. It is easier to teach a person how to sell than how to be a well-mannered person, therefore, in theory, if should not be so difficult to help Brenda reach higher sales.