Organizational Behavior

Touro University International

Jason C. Christenson

MGT 501, Management and Organizational Behavior

Module #2, Case Assignment

Managing Individual Behavior

Doctor Ken Myers

May 14, 2005

INTRODUCTION:

The purpose of this paper is to answer the assigned questions within this module in order to gain a better understanding of the impacts of individual employees within the organization. This is the second case assignment for MGT501, Management and Organizational Behavior during the spring semester at Touro University International. I will use background information, combined with outside research to strengthen this paper. I will begin by discussing the key values within the Starbucks organization. I will then discuss how these values and goals motivate Starbuck’s employees. Next, I will analyze goals, values, and motivation by looking at the employee satisfaction and job characteristic models. Finally, I will conclude with a brief summary that highlights the key points made throughout the paper.

DISCUSSION:

Starbucks has grown to become the leading retailer, roaster and brand of specialty coffee in the world (Wyss and Lincoff, 2005). Their growth has stemmed largely in part because of the key values of the organization. These key values focus on providing the best product possible to customers while balancing fiscal responsibility and benevolence to its employees (Fysh, 1998).

It is not uncommon for business organizations to include issues such as providing the best product, strong growth and some kind of environmental goal within their mission statement. However, there are few organizations that focus on benevolence to their employees like Starbucks does. This focus stems from their original CEO Howard Schultz.

Howard Shultz began developing a Starbuck’s business philosophy as a child growing up in the federal housing projects of New York. As a child, he witnessed his deliver cloth diapers every...