Mgt 305

1. Kurt Lewin theorized a three-stage model of change that has come to be known as the unfreezing-change-refreeze model that requires prior learning to be rejected and replaced.

Unfreezing: This phase of change is built on the theory that human behavior is established by past observational learning and cultural influences.

* getting ready for change and understanding it

* moving away from the comfort zone

* the forces that will resist change are; fear of redundancy, lack of confidence in the ability to carry out new tasks

* unfamiliarity with possible new work colleagues, a break-up of existing team dynamic and threat of future changes. The company must discuss the situation with all staff and present the need for change as a positive step in the continued success of the company and future job security.

* Examples: meetings to explain potential changes, staff help weigh out pros and cons and decide what is best for the firm

Change: Once there is sufficient dissatisfaction with the current conditions and a real

desire to make some change exists, it is necessary to identify exactly what needs to be changed.

* changes are made

* moving towards a new beginning

* explain how changes will benefit employees

* is the development of new habits and behaviour, based on the organisational needs, which will necessitate re-training

* Examples: more meetings so things are understood in further detail, stay supportive, staff training and job coaching

Freezing: should take place as Lewin suggests that companies and staff tend to revert to previous practices. This can be achieved by new compensation packages, appraisals, motivational activities.

* establishing stability after changes are made

* acceptance of change

* Examples: be available to communicate with employees, be hands on, work together to ensure the changes are best as possible and everything runs smoothly

2. Job centres - A place where jobs are advertised and training courses are provided for people looking for work. In Britain, job centres are provided by the government.

Advantages

a) applicants can be selected from nationwide sources with convenient, local availability of computer based data

b) socially responsible and secure

c) can produce applicants quickly

d) free service for employees

Drawbacks

a) registers are mainly for unemployed

b) produces people for interview who are not interested in the job

Internal adverts

Advantages

a) candidate is of known ability

b) quicker to recruit and induct

c) no

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