December 12, 2006
HR Simulation
I enjoyed participating in the human resources simulation experience to a certain extent. The most important lesson I learned was that without compromise it is hard to succeed in group projects or even in real work situations. Although there were a few disagreements regarding where the budget should be allocated, we all were able to come to a mutually agreed upon decision that positively affected the company’s results. Towards the end of the experience my group lost the passion we once had. Therefore, it might be just as effective if the simulation experience was conducted for only half the semester or if results were due every other week.
Goal Over Winter Break
There are many important tasks that I want to complete before the end of my Winter break. Most importantly, I want to make progress with my goal of getting an internship for the Summer of 2007. To facilitate this, I must have a completed resume done by the third week of break. Upon completion, I can then move onto my next step of posting my resume on eCompass and ClevelandInternship.net. In addition, I am also going to contact several individuals of firms that are of interest to me. I hope to get all of these tasks completed over my winter break so that I won’t be stressed out during second semester when I have a lot more going on.
Are Older Workers 'Good Buys'
In my opinion, there are many great benefits to hiring “older people”. First, most of the time these individuals are the most wise because they have been in the industry for so long. These older employees can offer their input and advice to younger employees who are not very familiar with their work. No individual should be discriminated against because of their age. However, the health of an individual should always be considered. If their health will negatively affect the work output, then it is best for the company to not hire that individual.
Tom Mendola Case
There are several issues for Tom Mendola’s supervisor to consider when deciding whether Tom should be given one last chance or if he should be let go. Although it would be a very difficult task to complete, I would take the responsibility of firing Tom from his position in the manufacturing company. It is clear that employees in his department are taking up more responsibilities because Tom has slacked off. Tom also hinders the level of productivity of other employees in his department, which can really hurt the company. In addition, the supervisor gave Tom an ample amount of warnings and still did not see any progress. Therefore, it would be best to dismiss Tom from his position because that is what is best for the company.
How do you fire an employee?
In my opinion, one of the most difficult tasks that supervisors, bosses, or managers have to do is dismissing or demoting an employee. However, no matter how difficult it is firing an employee is often the best thing for a company. There are several steps a person of firing authority can do to ease the tension of letting someone go. Out of respect, an employee should be given a written warning of their dismissal from the company. If an employee is given warning then they can prepare themselves by looking for another job. Furthermore, if the release is done effectively then the company’s image will not be hurt and the morale of other employees will remain the same.
November 10, 2006
Orientation Program
It is essential that business organizations to implement an orientation program for its new employees. There are many specific factors that should be covered in an orientation program when I begin a new job. First, I want a coworker who will aid me in a smooth transition into the job. Once again, it is important that I receive constructive feedback from my supervisor throughout the orientation program. Finally, the program should incorporate an information session to cover various topics including the responsibilities of the position, company policies, and company procedures. Orientation programs help to ensure long-term stability, morale, and quality performance levels.
Goal Setting
I thoroughly enjoyed the class session regarding goal setting. I learned many important lessons upon completing the class activity. I realized that I mostly set long-term goals, and forgot to include several short-term goals. If I were to repeat this activity I would include participating in a study abroad program, securing an internship for the summer of 2007, and graduating Case Western Reserve as some of my short-term goals. In my opinion, I think the SMART goal framework will really help me while setting short-term and long-term goals. It is a great way to ensure that goals are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound. If I make more attainable goals then I will be more motivated to meet both short-term and long-term goals.