Module 6 Workplace Challenge

THE FAVORITE EMPLOYEE

Samuel supervises a small office team.

One of his employees, Ruth, has worked with him for years.

They are close friends.

Another employee, Mariam, complains that Ruth receives better treatment.

Mariam says:

“Ruth comes late and nothing happens. When I was late last month, you spoke to me immediately.”

Samuel responds:

“Ruth has worked here longer than you. She has earned some flexibility.”

Mariam also says Ruth usually receives the most visible assignments.

Samuel believes Ruth receives them because she is experienced.

He checks the records.

He discovers:

• Ruth has been late four times in six weeks without documented follow-up
• Mariam was corrected after one late arrival
• Ruth has more experience in the type of project she usually receives
• no development opportunities have been offered to other employees to gain similar experience

Consider:

1. Which concern appears to involve inconsistent standards? 2. Which difference may have a legitimate work-related explanation? 3. Where might favoritism or the appearance of favoritism exist? 4. What should Samuel correct? 5. How could Samuel make future opportunities more transparent?

GUIDED RESPONSE

Ruth’s experience may legitimately explain why she receives some complex assignments.

However, repeated lateness being ignored while Mariam is corrected for a similar issue creates a clear fairness concern.

Samuel should address Ruth’s attendance using the appropriate standard.

He should also consider whether other employees should have transparent opportunities to develop the experience needed for higher-level assignments.