An American multinational company has recently employed Robert Lowe as a manager. Lowe gets a transfer to work in the multinationals’ branch in Paris. Lowe is enthusiastic towards the new place of work, and is eager to meet workers. He displays a friendly attitude towards developing a good working environment. Lowe decides to throw a big party and invites all the employees in the firm. His intention is to meet all the people in the office informally. Lowe is full of excitement since all the employees accept the invitation to the party. Lowe thinks that all the people are equally excited. Lowe offers a buffet of American appetizers and drinks instead of a sit-down dinner. Lowe uses this method to allow unlimited movement during the party. Lowe thinks this casual strategy would work the same way as in Chicago. The party makes the employees feel uncomfortable due to that casual environment. Some of the employees think that Lowe is showing off his classy lifestyle. Workers cannot socialize properly in this environment since they attend the party as an obligation.
Lowe makes a mistake since he assumes the same strategy of socializing and meeting new employees works the same way as his former branch in Chicago. Lowe fails to understand the work culture in this country upon arrival. Lowe thinks inviting the employees to his modernized apartment will create a friendship between him and the employees. Lowe confuses the French people since their idea of a party had a connection with office related work. Lowe does not clearly communicate the intention of the party to the employees. If I were the new manager, I would communicate with the employees so that I can gain an understanding on their beliefs and work organization. Grimes explains that engaging the employees in such matters is the most effectual way of reducing resistance and conflicts (78). This would enable me to understand the party that I would engage employees in without creating confusion. I may use a method, which is in line with the French culture, to ensure the intended goal is. If Lowe did the same thing in my country, the employees could really enjoy because the party environment is suitable comfortable for socializing.
Works Cited
Grimes, Nikki. The road to Paris. New York: G.P. Putnam, 2006. Print.
