Hrm 599 Human Resource Management Capstone

Nepotism

Dr. Andrew McLeod

HRM 599 Human Resource Management Capstone

Strayer University

31 January 2013

Summarize the major problems that Mary Smith has caused in her short tenure with the company.

Nepotism as defined by Pelletier& Bligh (2008) is the patronage bestowed or favoritism shown on the basis of family relationship, as in business and politics. The case study is a typical example of the ramifications of nepotism in the workplace and the damage that can result. Mary is in her third week of employment as an administrative assistant and as the daughter of one of the company cofounders, has misfiled documents, been late with her initial assignments, and fraternized frequently with specific employees. This scenario has impact on numerous levels and not only has an effect on her coworkers but management as well.

From the perspective of her immediate supervisor, prepare a job description that details the necessary tasks that Ms. Smith should perform in her role as administrative assistant.

Whisler (1960) explains the duties associated with the administrative assistant that under direction, performs complex clerical and administrative work tasks in support of one or more persons serving in an administrative or professional capacity; completes routine administrative tasks directly related to the work of their supervisor(s); and performs other related work as required. Duties may include fielding telephone calls, receiving and directing visitors, word processing, filing, and faxing. Extensive software skills are required, as well as Internet research abilities and strong communication skills. In the case of Mrs. Smith she requires a comprehensive and detailed job description to include a breakdown of individual tasks, duties and responsibilities. A clear and defined expectation is Mrs. Smith’s best defense from co-worker scrutiny and are individually defined by functional area as:

Priorities

* Relieve management of administrative...