LMSW Practice Test

How should a director engage staff effectively when canceling August vacations due to an unexpected upsurge of migrant workers?

1. Discuss the issue with subordinates and allow for questions, alternate possibilities and objections

2. Discourage dissent within the informal structure by asking the supervisors and informal leaders to meet with the director

3. Hold a general staff meeting where the issue is noted as an item

4. Send a memorandum to the staff describing the change and the reason

The correct answer is: Discuss the issue with subordinates and allow for questions, alternate possibilities and objections

Engaging staff effectively during a challenging situation, such as canceling vacations, requires open communication and collaboration. The best approach involves discussing the issue with subordinates, which encourages a two-way dialogue. This allows team members to voice their concerns, ask questions, and explore alternate options or express objections they might have. When staff are able to participate in the conversation, it fosters a sense of inclusion and respect, which can alleviate frustration or resentment about the decision. This approach also promotes transparency, showing that the director values the input of the staff and is willing to consider their perspectives. Such engagement can enhance team morale and support, making it more likely that employees will understand the rationale behind the difficult decision and support the organization’s needs during a high-pressure situation. Other methods, such as holding a general staff meeting without promoting discussion or sending a memorandum, do not provide the same level of engagement. They can come across as top-down communication, lacking opportunities for meaningful input from the staff. Additionally, discouraging dissent by relying on supervisors and informal leaders to communicate the decision can create a divide between management and staff, undermining trust and morale.