Reference no: EM132299357

Joe Armstrong has been supervisor for five years and has one of the best records in the firm. One of the major reasons for his success, in Joe’s own words, is that he surrounds himself with good people. “I have four assistant supervisors who are the best in the business,” he likes to say. Two months ago, one of Joe’s assistants, Bill Franklin, had a major personal tragedy. His wife died suddenly. Bill, who is fifty-five, has two children, both of whom are married and live in other parts of the country. Realizing Bill’s personal tragedy, Joe and the rest of the assistants have gone out of their way to be helpful. Their concern seems to be helping because Bill’s work output is beginning to return to where it was prior to his wife’s death. However, something happened yesterday that has Joe worried. While going through some monthly cost control reports, Joe realized he needed to talk to Bill about some data. He walked down the hall and knocked on Bill’s door. Hearing no answer, he thought he’d poke his head and see if Bill was there. Bill was in his office, but he did not hear Joe. He had his head on his desk, wrapped in his arms, and was quietly crying. On the desk was a small bottle of scotch and a glass that was a third filled. Joe quietly closed the door and returned to his office. About an hour later, he saw Bill walk past and he called him into his office. “I’d like to talk to you about some of these data in the monthly cost control report,” he said. Bill sat down and the two men went through the rep[orts in fifteen minutes. As Bill left, Joe said, “Bill, if there is anything I can do to help you in any way, please don’t hesitate to ask.” Bill smiled, “You’re the first one I’ll turn to. I promise.” Then he left and went back to his office. For the next half hour Joe sat quietly in his office, just staring out the window. “What should I do now?” he pondered. 1. Does Bill have a drinking problem? What do you think? If yes, give reasons; if no, give reasons. 2. Why did Joe not mention what he had seen to Bill? Explain. 3. What do you recommend that Joe do now? Be complete in your answer.