Final answer:
a) Offer Malcolm additional training
The best action to take with Malcolm, a new agent who missed showings, is to offer additional training to improve his skills and prevent future issues. This supportive approach aids both his personal development and the brokerage's reputation.
Step-by-step explanation:
If Malcolm, a new agent, has been struggling and missed his third showing, the most appropriate and constructive course of action would be to offer additional training. This approach is proactive and focuses on developing employee skills, which can prevent future issues and improve Malcolm's performance. Rather than taking more drastic measures immediately, such as reporting him to the regulatory board, publicly reprimanding him, or dismissing him, it's important to provide support and guidance.
Additional training could include role-playing exercises to practice client interactions, attending further educational sessions on effective sales techniques, or shadowing a more experienced agent to gain insights on successfully managing showings. The goal is to enhance Malcolm's abilities and confidence, which will benefit both his individual success and the reputation of the brokerage.