Changing performance in older work groups: a qualitative study of employee transition

Abstract

Persons who have been out of any formal type of educational setting for 20 - 30 years are now having to change to meet technical aspects of their jobs. The participants in this study must change to meet requirements of their job or will be terminated. Three males were chosen and agreed to participate in this study. Their average age is 59, and their average time with the company is 21 years. Each participant has a fear of public speaking and feels ill-prepared educationally to meet the requirements. This study is qualitative and information pertaining to the participants and company identity have been changed. My findings show that there is lack of communication and trust between management and the employees. Each participant fears they can not intellectually and socially meet the requirements due to educational and esteem deficiency. The changes in the company are happening very quickly not providing time for acceptance or comfortablity by the employees. In order for this company to be profitable and have continued success, they need to regain trust and open communication to increase morale. The employees must have a say in decisions made that effect them and the organization. Change must be gradual and the employees need to be treated as valuable.