Case

George Brown is not doing well in his job. The problems began to appear shortly after His job was changed from a manual to a computer-based operation. He has tried but he is just not doing well in terms of learning to use the computer and meet the performance expectations. As a 55-year-old employee with over 30 years with the company, George is both popular and influential among his work peers. Along with his performance problems you have also noticed the appearance of some negative attitudes - a tendency for George to 'badmouth the company.

Question 1 (5 marks) As George's manager, what options would you consider in terms of dealing with the issue of his retention in the job and in the company?

Question 2 (5 marks) Apply the informal/formal leadership concept to the case, discuss the potential risk you will face when you deal with the issue.