If you are unsure about the status of a resource when speaking with a student, what should you do?

• A. Acknowledges uncertainty and offer to check status or follow up.
• B. Provide inaccurate status to save time.
• C. Escalate to supervisor immediately without attempting to check.
• D. Delay and offer to follow up after verifying status.

Answer: (A)

When you’re unsure about a resource’s status, acknowledge the uncertainty and offer to check and follow up. This keeps information accurate and shows you’re taking responsibility for the student’s needs. You can say you’ll look into it right away and get back with the latest update within a set timeframe, then actually follow through. This approach preserves trust, avoids spreading misinformation, and helps the student plan accordingly. Providing an inaccurate status wastes time and can mislead the student. Escalating to a supervisor immediately without trying to verify can create unnecessary delays. Delaying without a concrete plan leaves the student waiting and uncertain; instead, pair the follow-up with a specific timeframe and deliver on it.