Case Study: Puckett Animal Hospital In the case study of Puckett Animal Hospital, veterinarian Dr. Richard Puckett struggles to find the right course of action for his growing business. Rich demonstrates genuine concern for his employees, providing both hourly and salaried workers access to benefits and continuing education. Rich is forced to cut costs when an increase in minimum wage nearly double the hourly workers’ rate of pay, and. Rich has a history of investing in his employees, and this investment has paid off—his business is growing, and clients are happy. Rich’s decision to end 401(k) benefits covers the increase in minimum wage and keeps a full staff to best serve his clients. His communication strategy must continue to demonstrate …show more content…
They would also lose 401(k) benefits, but as a result, their income would nearly double, and they would all keep their jobs. On the downside, if salaried employees take the decision personally, kennel workers could experience backlash, creating a very unhealthy work environment. A third group which Rich must address, albeit indirectly, is the clients they serve, and the business’ reputation for excellent customer service. Rich’s decision could easily lower morale and work ethic, or even cause employees to look elsewhere for employment. This will inevitably affect their standard of client care. The quality of service clients are used to will decline without a full staff of happy, committed employees. Rich must act on his decision to protect his business, because change is …show more content…
For Rich’s decision to be successful, salary and hourly employees need to “trust their leader and feel they will be treated fairly and honestly” (Griffith and Gould 2008). Because the situation and impending decision impact the employees in different ways, he should consult the hourly and salaried employees face to face, but in separate settings. Rich should consult with the salaried employees first to gain insight on his decision. Their reactions will help Rich solidify his decision, then he will continue the consulting approach to share this information with his hourly