How do you solve a problem like Lucinda?
Publication date: 4 January 2016
Abstract
Synopsis
A room attendant in a small hotel with approximately 63 employees undermines her supervisors and disregards authority in deliberate defiance of company policies, rules, regulations and procedures. Disrespect is shown in several behaviours that include interfering with the work of other employees, spreading rumours, gossiping to other room attendants and complaining about unfair treatment.
Research methodology
This case was field researched and the company and individuals are disguised.
Relevant courses and levels
This case is suitable for third- or fourth-year undergraduate students. Within human resource management it is suited for use in a course or series of classes on employee relations or performance management. The case could also be used for an organizational behaviour course to explore conflict and struggle in organizations and the range of passive and active resistance practices that occur. In this particular case the context of women and minorities working in low-skilled roles could be examined.
Theoretical bases
In advance of this case students should have a background in performance management theory and practice, disciplinary systems and practice and the behaviours associated with workplace resistance, insubordination and misconduct.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
Acknowledgments
Disclaimer. This case is written solely for educational purposes and is not intended to represent successful or unsuccessful managerial decision making. The author/s may have disguised names; financial and other recognizable information to protect confidentiality.
Citation
Wilson-Mah, R. (2016), "How do you solve a problem like Lucinda?", , Vol. 12 No. 1, pp. 71-87. https://doi.org/10.1108/TCJ-07-2015-0027
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2016, Emerald Group Publishing Limited