Read the following extracts and answer the questions that follow.
Samuel Pheko was the manager of the Matamod at Mosu Village. During one of his vacations he
took a short course in management and public relations in one of the best rated commercial
institutions. It then dawned upon him that all these years he had been doing the wrong thing by
dealing only with the section heads under him. On his return to the factory he was a new Mr.
Pheko. He began having his lunch in the workers’ mess, he even smoked a beer or two with them
and exchanged a few smutty jokes. Over a cup of tea he told them the story of his life and many
spicy episodes about the lives of the directions – all in the interest of better public relations. He
also joined them once in ragging a foreman who wore an old fashioned coat and hat. Trouble
started a few days later. Absenteeism increased, there were three incidents of workers refusing to
carry out the orders of their supervisors and two workers were found in a drunken state on the
plant.
a. Discuss the problems that emanated from Mr. Pheko’s management approach after the course as
well as their possible effect on his relations and communication with workers. (15 marks)
b. Discuss ways to overcome the problems outlined above in allowing effective relations between
Mr. Pheko and his subordinates. (10 marks)
a. The problems that emanated from Mr. Pheko's management approach after the course include increased absenteeism, workers refusing to carry out orders, and workers being found in a drunken state on the plant. These problems can be attributed to two main factors. Firstly, Mr. Pheko's sudden change in behavior and attempt to befriend the workers may have blurred the line of authority and created confusion among the workers. By having lunch with them, smoking and drinking with them, and sharing personal stories, the workers may have started to see Mr. Pheko as a friend rather than their manager. This can lead to a lack of respect for authority and a feeling that they can get away with not following instructions or behaving unprofessionally.
Secondly, Mr. Pheko's decision to join in ragging a foreman who wore an old-fashioned coat and hat may have created a negative and divisive atmosphere among the workers. By participating in such behavior, Mr. Pheko may have encouraged a culture of disrespect and bullying within the workplace. This can lead to a breakdown in communication and cooperation between different levels of employees.
The possible effects on Mr. Pheko's relations and communication with workers include a loss of respect and trust. The workers may feel that Mr. Pheko is not taking his role as a manager seriously and is more interested in being liked by the workers than in ensuring productivity and efficiency. This can create a hostile work environment where workers are less likely to follow instructions and may have less motivation to perform their duties.
b. To overcome the problems outlined above and allow for effective relations between Mr. Pheko and his subordinates, the following steps can be taken:
1. Establish clear boundaries and expectations: Mr. Pheko needs to make it clear to the workers that although he wants to have a positive relationship with them, he is still their manager and expects them to follow his instructions and behave professionally. This can be done through clear and consistent communication, both verbally and in writing, outlining the expectations for behavior and performance.
2. Reinforce professionalism and respect: Mr. Pheko should discourage any behavior that promotes disrespect or bullying within the workplace. This can be done through training sessions, team-building activities, and setting a positive example through his own behavior. Any incidents of disrespect or bullying should be addressed promptly and effectively.
3. Improve communication channels: Mr. Pheko should establish regular and open channels of communication with his subordinates. This can be done through regular team meetings, one-on-one discussions, and feedback sessions. By encouraging open and honest communication, Mr. Pheko can address any concerns or issues that may arise and ensure that his subordinates feel heard and valued.
4. Provide proper training and support: Mr. Pheko should invest in training programs for both himself and his subordinates. This can include management and leadership training for Mr. Pheko, as well as skill development and job-specific training for the workers. By providing the necessary training and support, Mr. Pheko can ensure that his subordinates have the skills and knowledge they need to perform their duties effectively.
5. Foster a positive and inclusive work environment: Mr. Pheko should strive to create a work environment where all employees feel valued and included. This can be done through recognizing and rewarding employee achievements, promoting teamwork and collaboration, and fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion. By creating a positive and inclusive work environment, Mr. Pheko can improve relations and communication with his subordinates.