"My manager at my last company assigned an employee with a poor performance record to a crucial project that I was responsible for. I disagreed with the assignment because I knew the project would be stressful, and we needed our best players involved. I felt that the assignment put the project at risk, and I asked why he felt this was the right decision.

My manager explained that the resource in question was on a performance plan. Part of his plan was to demonstrate his ability to improve his assignment delivery under time constraints. My project met all of the criteria for the plan. He also noted that effectively managing resources with performance issues was a necessary step in my development as a leader. He was considering me for a promotion and wanted to allow me to demonstrate advanced leadership skills.

I thanked him for explaining and accepted the challenge. The project was a valuable test, and I passed with flying colors. My colleague also stepped up and delivered high-quality work on time. I am glad my manager had the vision to pair us up."