Question

Despite being highly capable, a new employee is not promoted for years, while less competent senior employee retain top positions. Which principle of management is being ignored here?

Hint:

Remember: Equity in management doesn't just mean equal pay; it means fair, unbiased treatment based on merit and performance, not just tenure or favoritism.

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 4

Step 1: Read the scenario carefully.
A highly capable new employee is not promoted for years, while less competent but senior employees hold top positions. This is a case of favouritism based on length of service rather than merit.
Step 2: Recall Fayol's 14 principles of management.
Henri Fayol gave broad principles to guide managers in building an effective and fair organisation. One of these specifically addresses the treatment of employees.
Step 3: Identify the principle of Equity.
The Principle of Equity states that managers must treat all employees with kindness, fairness, and impartiality. It calls for justice in all dealings - including promotions, pay, and opportunities.
Step 4: Apply Equity to the scenario.
Giving promotions based purely on seniority, while ignoring the superior competence of a newer employee, is an act of discrimination. The manager is being partial, which directly violates Equity.
Step 5: Rule out other principles.
The scenario is not about work division (Division of Work), discipline issues (Discipline), or authority structures (Unity of Command). It is purely about fair treatment in career progression.
Step 6: State the conclusion.
By ignoring the merit and capability of the new employee, the organisation is violating Fayol's Principle of Equity.
\[ \boxed{ \text{Principle of Equity} } \]