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The annual staff survey at a large retail store has revealed that employees are unmotivated and management does not listen to their suggestions and is unwilling to change - HSC - SSCE Business Studies - Question 22 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 22
The annual staff survey at a large retail store has revealed that employees are unmotivated and management does not listen to their suggestions and is unwilling to c... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The annual staff survey at a large retail store has revealed that employees are unmotivated and management does not listen to their suggestions and is unwilling to change - HSC - SSCE Business Studies - Question 22 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Outline the strategic role of human resources in this business.
Answer
The strategic role of human resources (HR) in this business is crucial for aligning human capital with the organization's goals. HR plays a pivotal role in:
- Recruitment and Selection: Ensuring that the right talent is hired who can contribute to the company’s objectives.
- Employee Development: Implementing training programs that enhance skills and promote career advancement, which can lead to increased job satisfaction and employee retention.
- Engagement and Motivation: Creating initiatives that encourage employee involvement and feedback, thereby fostering a positive workplace culture and improving morale, especially after findings from the staff survey.
- Change Management: Supporting the organization through transitions by managing the human aspects of change, ensuring employees are engaged and informed during the process.
Step 2
Demonstrate how the leadership style of this business has affected employee performance.
Answer
The leadership style within this business has significantly impacted employee performance in several ways:
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Autocratic Leadership: If management is unwilling to listen to employee suggestions, it may reflect an autocratic style, which can lead to low motivation and engagement. Employees may feel undervalued, negatively influencing their productivity.
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Lack of Communication: The absence of open communication channels may create a disconnect between employees and management. This disconnect can lead to misunderstandings about roles and responsibilities, further diminishing performance levels.
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Impact on Morale: When employees perceive that their input is not valued, it can result in frustration and reduced morale, prompting a decline in overall performance.
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Need for Change: The hiring of a consultant indicates recognition by management of the need for a shift in leadership style to one that is more participatory. A democratic or transformational leadership approach could improve employee engagement and enhance overall performance by fostering a collaborative environment where employees feel empowered to contribute.