5. Do you think the banquet is a ritual? Why or why not? Apply what you’ve learned in this chapter by analyzing the following case study, using the accompanying questions as a guide. These questions and a video of the case study are also available online at your CourseMate for Communication Mosaics.

Ed recently began working at a new job. Although he’s been in his new job only fi ve weeks, he likes it a lot, and he’s told you that he sees a future for himself with this company. But last week, a problem arose. Along with all other employees, Ed was invited to the annual company banquet, at which everyone socializes and awards are given for outstanding performance. Ed’s daughter was in a play the night of the banquet, so Ed chose to attend his daughter’s play rather than the company event. The invitation to the banquet had stated only, “Hope to see you there” and had not been RSVP, so Ed didn’t mention to anyone that he couldn’t attend. When he arrived at work the next Monday morning, however, he discovered the case was otherwise and had the exchange that follows with his manager. Later, when Ed talked with several co-workers who had been around a few years, he discovered that top management sees the annual banquet as a “command performance” that signifi es company unity and loyalty.