World Décor and Home has issued a notice that it will not be giving bonuses and raises to employees in the next quarter due to a downturn in profits. How do you think employees will react to this change? Describe the reactions likely experienced by each of the following four types of employees: stars, citizens, lone wolves, and apathetics.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Student answers will vary but should demonstrate understanding of the different types of employees and their reactions to negative events. The following is a sample answer.

Employees can react to a negative work event in one of four general ways: exit, voice, loyalty, neglect.
Stars: Those employees in World Décor who possess high commitment and high performance and are held up as role models for other employees will voice their disapproval toward the lack of bonuses and raises. They might even make some suggestions that will help the organization improve its financial condition (voice). 
Citizens: The employees falling under the "citizens" category will respond to the lack of bonus and salary hike with loyalty. They will not display their disapproval, but they will privately feel that the organization should have given raises. 
Lone wolves: Employees falling under the category of "lone wolves" are motivated to achieve work goals for themselves, not necessarily for their company. These employees will most likely quit their jobs at World Décor (exit). 
Apathetics: The employees falling under the category of "apathetics" exert the minimum level of effort needed to keep their jobs. These people will not be affected by the lack of bonus and salary hike, and they will most probably ignore the notice (neglect).