Reference no: EM132810236

Case study of Nordstrom: the workplace violence dilemm

Ezaldein was killed on her 22nd birthday. Her family had planned a surprise birthday party after she completed her shift at Nordstrom.37 Ezaldein's co-workers at the Chicago Nordstrom store did not return to work the following day. Christmas shoppers were greeted with a sign that stated, "Due to the tragic situation that occurred in our store yesterday, our store is closed today, Saturday, November 29." The Ezaldein tragedy made it essential for Nordstrom's managers to dedicate themselves to providing a safe workplace for employees and customers, and achieve excellence in workplace violence prevention policies. Furthermore, Nordstrom's managers recognized that effective and long-lasting workplace policies were urgently needed, to provide comfort and security to both employees and customers.

Questions:

1. What are the major issues that an organization has to deal with when developing and enforcing its workplace violence policy?

2. Assume that you have been invited to a meeting with the three Nordstrom co-president and asked to develop a workplace violence policy, what would be your recommendation?

Note: Learning Objectives

Understand the complexity of workplace violence from a human resource management and legal perspective

Understand the importance of developing effective workplace violence policies.

Appreciate the employee's rights in the workplace.

Appreciate the employer's rights and obligations in its working environment.