Comment Re:coz they get more excited? (Score 3, Insightful) 134
I vote for option 3: Converse with the employee and explain your reasoning for doing A, ask him his reasoning for doing B (if he didn't explain it when he approached you), discuss both options, and end with the fact that the decision has already been made and keep an open mind in the future.
Whether you're managing a few people or many, a manager ought to be open to discussion with employees, to accept constructive criticism, and be able to explain reasoning behind decisions that they make. This is good management. Sadly, not all managers are good managers.