Question

1. A manager resentfully finds himself forced to fire 500 employees to save the company (more than 100,000 employees) from an eminent bankruptcy. He tries to act with honesty by informing at the earliest possible the affected employees so they can find enough time to look for alternative jobs. He also decides to prepare a letter explaining the reasons of this unfortunate decision and with an apology approach. Additionally, he writes a recommendation letter to all these 500 employees to support their pursuit for jobs.

Discuss this manager’s behavior in terms of the five approaches (Fairness, Virtue, rights and utilitarian, common good approach) and compare how each of these approaches contributed to the overall benefits of the organization

Answer 1

Fairness - The manager clearly communicated unfortunate decision and its prime reason which is for bigger cause to save organisation from bankruptcy and save costs.

Virtue- the manager exhibited virtue to great deal so employees have sufficient time to find alternative job and helped them with recommendations letter for newer opportunities. This brings organisational repute and saves from brand damages.

Utilitarian - the manager weighs costs and benefits appropriately however does not fully convince the benefits and justification of laying off 500 employees as this will decrease productivity. Overall utilitarian approach helps organisations strike balance in strategic decisions making and weigh down pros and cons.

Common good approach - Manager effectively navigates the commin good approach by saving costs for organisations and from bankruptcy at the same time helps employees in finding newer job opportunities by maintaining fine balance. Such approaches help organisations to be recognised as good employers and maintain the level of empathy, integrity and support.