If new sales employees are selected on the basis of communication skills, which function is involved?

Correct answer: Staffing

Selecting new employees according to a job-relevant skill is a staffing activity. Staffing includes estimating manpower needs, recruitment, selection, placement, training and development. Communication skill is relevant to sales because employees must explain products, listen to customers and respond clearly; using it as a selection criterion helps match people with job requirements. Organising would divide work and establish authority relationships, directing would guide and motivate already appointed employees, and controlling would compare results with standards. Although the selection decision may support the overall plan, the specific personnel action described is unmistakably staffing. Therefore option A is correct, as it represents obtaining the right employee for the right sales role.