Loans to be recovered

Today's Manager, Dec-Jan, 2008 by Ong Kian Hui

Christopher has created undue distress on his colleagues by his act. From the management's point of view, the distress experienced by staff might have affected their morale and productivity. The company could issue a warning letter to Christopher, prohibiting further borrowing. The company could also attempt to recover some of the monies owed by Christopher. As bad ethics might be difficult to correct, the company may decide on this course of action if it wants to end the episode promptly. The human resource manager should arrange for Christopher to apologise to his colleagues before hastily dismissing him.

The staff seminars on gambling may be useful in educating the rest of the staff. KK Ong was not right to notify top management only when Colleen became a victim as this is an act of favoritism. After Christopher's dismissal, the management shall also explore the existing feedback channel from staff to ensure future similar incidents are brought to their attention earlier.--Contributed by Ong Kian Hui