Reference no: EM133781634

Assignment:

Instructions

Chief Slaughter loses his temper at a contemptuous labor meeting with the patrol officers' union. As Slaughter cools off in his office, he realizes some of his comments were out of line. He's actually a good-hearted guy who backs his cops. Chief Slaughter recently attended a conference where a vender was selling hats with special reflective pink brims. The vender quoted impressive statistics concerning the added safety the hats provide to officers. Chief Slaughter knows he going to have to squeeze his tight budget to buy the hats, but its his way of demonstrating his concern for his officers and their safety. After his outburst at the labor meeting, he thinks this will be a good time to show them he cares. Chief Slaughter dictates a memo and has his secretary post it in the glass case outside the roll call room. He leaves for the weekend. "New hats with reflective pink safety brims will be distributed to the entire department next week. The hats will be worn by all officers. By order of Chief Slaughter." On Monday morning Chief Slaughter was greeted by disgruntled cops and a grievance.

1. Is there a problem in the communication process between Chief Slaughter and his officers?

2. Do you think Chief Slaughter used the most effective channel of communications for his message?

3. Was timing important?

4. Are there some inherent problems in communications between unions and administrations?

5. Suggest a better channel for communicating the Chiefs message.