A private company is known for its efficiency, transparency, and employee welfare. The company though owned by a private individual has a cooperative character where employees feel a sense of ownership. The company employs nearly 700 personnel and they have voluntarily decided not to form a union. One day suddenly in the morning, about 40 men belonging to a political party gate- crashed into the factory demanding jobs in the factory. They threatened the management and employees and also used foul language. The employees feel demoralized. It was clear that those people who gate-crashed wanted to be on the payroll of the company as well as continue as volunteers/members of the party. The company maintains high standards of integrity and does not extend favors to civil administration which also includes law enforcement agencies. Such incidents occur in the public sector also.
a. Assume you are the CEO of the company. What would you do to diffuse the volatile situation on the date of gate-crashing with the violent mob sitting inside the company premises?
b. What could be the long-term solution to the issue discussed in the case?
c. Every solution/action that you suggest will have a positive and a negative impact on you (as CEO), the employees, and the performance of the employees. Analyze the consequences of each of your suggested actions. (250 words) [UPSC 2015]
Roadmap for Answer Writing
1. Introduction
- Context: Introduce the scenario of a private company facing a violent mob demanding jobs, emphasizing its reputation for efficiency, transparency, and employee welfare.
- Thesis Statement: Outline the dual challenge of ensuring employee safety while maintaining company integrity.
2. Immediate Actions (a)
- Prioritize Employee Safety:
- Evacuate employees from the area.
- Coordinate with security and local law enforcement for protection.
- Engage in Dialogue:
- Approach the mob leaders to understand their grievances.
- Remain calm and respectful to foster a constructive conversation.
- Offer Mediation:
- Propose a peaceful resolution within company policies.
- Emphasize the importance of maintaining a peaceful work environment.
- Seek Legal Intervention:
- If necessary, contact local authorities to file a complaint against the mob.
3. Long-term Solutions (b)
- Strengthen Security Measures:
- Enhance surveillance and access control systems to prevent future incidents.
- Employee Training:
- Provide training on crisis management and conflict resolution.
- Public Awareness Campaign:
- Educate the community about the company’s values and contributions.
- Strengthen Relationships with Local Authorities:
- Build connections with law enforcement for timely support.
4. Consequences of Suggested Actions (c)
- Prioritizing Employee Safety:
- Positive: Ensures employee well-being and loyalty.
- Negative: May provoke backlash from the mob.
- Engaging in Dialogue:
- Positive: Demonstrates willingness to listen, possibly leading to resolution.
- Negative: Risk of unmet demands if negotiations break down.
- Offering Mediation:
- Positive: Promotes fairness and preserves company reputation.
- Negative: Could be perceived as capitulation to external pressures.
- Seeking Legal Intervention:
- Positive: Reinforces adherence to law and order.
- Negative: Potential escalation of tensions and legal implications.
5. Conclusion
- Summary of Key Points: Recap the importance of balancing immediate safety with long-term solutions.
- Final Thought: Emphasize the need for a proactive approach to maintain a positive work environment while upholding company values.
Handling the Gate-Crashing Incident as CEO
a. Immediate Response to the Incident:
b. Long-Term Solutions to Prevent Future Issues:
Recent Examples:
By taking these immediate and long-term actions, the CEO can address the current crisis and create a more resilient organizational environment to handle future challenges effectively.
Model Answer
Introduction
In this case, a private company faces a violent mob demanding jobs, threatening employee morale and safety. As CEO, immediate actions must prioritize employee safety, engage in constructive dialogue, and consider legal intervention if necessary.
Body
(a) Immediate Actions
(b) Long-term Solutions
(c) Consequences of Suggested Actions
Conclusion
Each action taken by the CEO carries its own risks and benefits. Balancing employee safety with company values while maintaining a positive work environment is crucial for effective governance in challenging situations.