Staffing in institutions

What is the dilemma Barbara is facing?

As a result of her responsibilities to care for her parents and her pregnancy, Barbara is unsure if she should inform the management. Even though she does a decent job, it is impossible to say whether she will be able to combine her personal and professional lives, which could be a factor that hinders her productivity. Sam might be given consideration for the position because he won't need any leave and is also seen favorably by management, and because the company only needs one controller due to her pregnancy and the necessity for maternity leave.

If she is honest, what might happen?

If Barbara is honest, she will enable the management to be aware of her commitment to ensure that her productivity is not affected by personal issues. An employee has the right to be granted a maternity leave, and thus it should not affect her job in any way. The extra responsibilities of caring for her father and mother and her excellent performance may make the management consider her for the position of the controller. However, the management may feel that she might not be able to balance between professional and personal life due to the increased workload as a result of the merger.

If she is not honest, what might happen?

An employee must inform the employer concerning their pregnancy on time for the necessary preparations to be made, and failing to be honest will inconvenience the company due to disruptions in the workplace. She might fail to get the maternity leave at the right time. Failure to notify the management of the things happening to her will make it hard for them to understand her situation if her productivity gets affected, and this may lead to her dismissal. The company could consider Sam as the controller for failing to be honest about things that might affect her productivity and that of the company.

What would you do if you were Barbara?

Employees are entitled to maternity leaves, and thus I would ensure that I notify the management about my plans concerning when to take the leave to ensure proper procedures are put in place to avoid disruptions. It is also essential when the management understands what an employee is going through as it enables them to be more understanding and supportive. Therefore, I would let them know to avoid being judged harshly if the personal issues affect my productivity. I will also put plans on how to balance the increased commitment to ensure that my job is not affected even by an increased workload.

What would you do if you were her boss and she told you she was pregnant?

It is normal to get pregnant, and I will enquire about when she intends to take her maternity leave as that will affect the company due to her absence. It will help to plan to ensure that there are no disruptions. As such, it will require plans to be put in place to have a replacement when she is away given that the controller tasks must be carried out.

Who will you choose to be the controller? Why? Is it fair?

I will choose Barbara as she is good at her work. Her commitment to her parents requires her to have a job to support them. She is also dedicated to ensuring a balance between personal and professional life. Her motivation and good performance will ensure her productivity is not affected. Moreover, the maternity leave is a right to employees, and it does not mean it will affect the firm's productivity.