Answer to Question #156918 in Management for Aysha Zeeshan

Question

Brent Templeton is a draftsman for a large industrial equipment manufacturer. He has been with the company for more than seven years and is well respected for his abilities. In a recent conversation with one of his friends, Brent revealed the following thoughts about his work. I really shouldn't complain about my job, I guess. The money is good. The working conditions are excellent. I have good friends who work with me, and that's important. Although retirement is a long way off, I'm putting aside funds to help me live comfortably then. I'm also setting aside money to put our children through college when the time comes. My problem is this: I just don't see anything different in the future. I have already reached the top of the pay scale for draftsmen. Except for cost-of-living adjustments, my income will never be much greater than it is now. More important, I've reached the top level for promotions that a draftsman can achieve. To get into a higher level design or engineering job, the company requires you to be a College graduate. Since I don't have a college degree, I have no real hope of advancing. Even if I could go back to college to get a degree, it would take years for me to get one. I must support my family; so I can spare neither the time nor the money that would be necessary to get a degree. As I view the alternatives available, I just don't see many within the company itself. Perhaps what I should do is get involved in something off the job the would be stimulating. One of the boy's clubs in town needs someone to teach the kids how to do carpentry and woodwork, and I'm pretty good at those things; so I may volunteer to work in the program. I guess it's not really important that I be all fired up about my work with this company. Just so long as I do my job and stay out of trouble, That's all that's really important, isn't it? 

Case Questions:

(1)  On the basis of case material which of Brent Templeton's needs are being fulfilled by his employing organization? 

 

(2) Which of Brent's needs, goals, or expectations are not being met by his employer? Why is this particularly discouraging to Brent? 

(3) Is it important that Brent's be excited about his work, or is it enough to expect him to do his job and stay out of trouble? What steps could Brent's employer take that would result in a change of attitude and improve his inspiration to perform? 

Answer 1

1) Based on the case material, which of Brent Templeton's needs are being fulfilled by his employing organization? 

The following needs are being fulfilled: The employing organization is paying Brent well. The working environment is conducive. There is a good interrelationship between Brent and his coworkers. Brent is born with enough money to save for his children's college fees and his retirement. The employing organization has promoted Brent to the top of the pay scale for draftsmen.

2) Which of Brent's needs, goals, or expectations is not being met by his employer? Why is this incredibly discouraging to Brent?

Brent had no college degree as a result, the employer could not meet his need to advance to a higher level or engineering job. This discouraged Brent because he did not have time or the money to go back to school since he must support his family, and even if he went back, it would take years for him to get the degree.

3) Is it essential that Brent be excited about his work, or is it enough to expect him to do his job and stay out of trouble? What steps could Brent's employer take that would result in a change of attitude and improve his inspiration to perform?

Brent should do his job and stay out of trouble. The employer should take the following steps to change Brent's attitude and improve his inspiration to perform.

• The employer should ensure jobs satisfaction. Job satisfaction increases the employee's confidence in their abilities, which inspires them to work hard.

• Engage Brent in the daily tasks. By doing this, Brent is likely to develop a positive attitude towards the job, which improves his productivity.

• Interracting with Brent. The employer should ensure that he is emotionally connected to Brent and other employees. The employer should work towards creating a healthy relationship with his employees to improve their attitude towards work.

• Communication and helping him with his issues and problems. Brent's employer should help him overcome some personal problems that may affect his performance on his job.