seminar unit 6

Cecilia recently went to work for a telecommunications firm in San Francisco as the

receptionist. In the first week, several other employees went out of their way to go

through the lobby just to see her. She is very attractive, and everyone soon learned she

was a former model at local trade shows.

Cecilia’s image started to create problems within the company. Though Cecilia was a nice

person and didn’t appear conceited, her appearance was a distraction to the organization.

The office manager discovered that work had slowed down since Cecilia was hired. For

instance, male sales reps were stopping by and spending time chatting with her; female

workers were making catty remarks behind her back and seemed to be spending more

time having negative conversations. Three comments overheard were, "She’s too perfect,"

"Cecilia wears way too much makeup," and "She dresses too nice for this place."

Make notes regarding what is happening here. Include the roles in this situation of

the receptionist, visitors to the front lobby, other employees, and the office manager.

Each person or group is playing a role. Using the questions below as a guide, be

prepared to discuss how you would resolve this situation.

1. Do you think the office manager should view this problem as one that will work itself out with time? Why or why not?

2. What steps should be taken to get work back on track? What should the manager say to the other workers? Is

Cecilia to blame at all in this situation?