Organizational Behavior Analysis

Organizational Behavior Analysis

Diana Leigh

BUS610: Organizational Behavior

Dr. Charlene L. Williams-Anderson

Ashford University

August 28th 2012

Introduction

In order to analysis an organization’s behavior first we have to understand the culture. Organizational culture consists of the actions, behaviors, systems, values and beliefs that persist over time. I worked for Wal-Mart, for 10 years in various different capacities and I believe I can give a close to honest analysis of the organization. Wal-Mart would be considered a “salad bowl” as they have a very diverse workforce, which has made an impact on the culture. However, it is true that, despite the positive strengths of the Wal-Mart culture, they have been criticized for allowing gender-based discrimination, unfair overtime policies, using sweatshop products, ‘killing off' small local business and more recently, bribery of foreign government officials. In my opinion Wal-Mart died along with Sam in 1992. The first of Wal-Mart's 3 basic beliefs is "Respect for the Individual". Wal-Mart often to fails to abide by this belief by constantly insulting their associates by mentally demeaning and harassing them. Has Wal-Mart lost its way?

Sam Walton wanted to set up a store that provided customers 'high value, low prices with a warm welcome' (Walton, 1993). The first store opened in 1962 it was called Wal-Mart. Walton believed that happy and satisfied employees performed well and this contributed to happy customers (Walton, 1993). Wal-Mart's culture was built on three basic beliefs; Respect for the individual; Service to Our Customers; and Strive for Excellence (Walton, 1993). The culture was built around these ideals. I believe these ideals, made a good foundation for growth for an individual and a company.

I began working for Wal-Mart as a part time cashier while...