1. Assume that Horigan Enterprises (HE) pays its employees, on average, fifteen percent (15%) more than most of its competitors located within the same metropolitan area. Based on that statement, which policy, according to our textbook, is HE following? Also, what are the potential implications of such a policy?
2. As is mentioned in our textbook, the United States military uses a job classification system. How exactly does a job classification system function? (Feel free to use outside sources.) Also, in your personal opinion, why do you think the military uses such a system?
3. Some managers tend to underestimate the true extent of turnover costs. Explain how and why that might happen.
4. How does Ouchi’s Theory Z differ from McGregor’s Theory X-Y? Explain in detail.
5. Any job should be able to satisfy at least a few of the needs of employees as outlined in Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. However, certainly not all jobs satisfy all such needs. Discuss.
6. Assume that Damien Capital (DC), a New York City firm that specializes in both private equity and venture capital, brings all its employees on an annual retreat at a posh resort in Florida. During the weekend retreat various indoor and outdoor activities usually take place. For purposes of team training, propose a list of appropriate activities for next year’s corporate retreat.
7. Assume that Damien Bank (DB), a Boston commercial bank, will be setting up a representative office in Tokyo. This will be DB’s first expansion into Asia.
Three American employees will be sent from Boston to Tokyo. All of them have at least five years of banking experience, but none of them have lived in Japan before.
Based on our textbook, your own experiences, and possibly other sources, what sort of international assignment training should DB provide to those employees?
8. Traditionally, many people learned a trade/vocation through an apprenticeship. Job shadowing is normally part of that process. Discuss at least one advantage and one disadvantage of job shadowing.
9. In your own words, describe Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory.
10. Variable pay systems are often used when compensating salespersons. Explain what such a system is. Then, discuss why these systems are so widely used for sales positions.
