After reading the case study one can sympathize with Harper’s sentiment. Having shared a similar situation, I can say for sure the most demotivating part is not being recognized for the level of work she does. The fact that Harper took on most of her old manager’s work and can handle it shows her value as an employee. If I were the HR manager, I would ask David if he has recognized the work Harper does. First to see if David is an observant manager and recognizes the grasp Harper has on her old manager’s work as well as to why she is doing the managers work instead of David. Secondly, to see what plans he may have for Harper so that I can determine if she should take her old manager’s position or move her to a different team with more growth opportunities. As for how to re-engage Harper I would recommend recognition of her contribution to the team as well as some financial compensation for her. I would also speak with David about work-life balance and how the work is distributed since Harper took on most of the responsibilities. Harper being able to manage the work of her previous manager shows she is a valuable employee. Losing her would cause more work for the team and burden them all. That would increase stress and disinterest in the other employees which will ultimately result in losing more of the team.

I know that through practice I have learned and agree to a majority of the eight strategies we read about. I’ve seen the impact that recognition and open communication can make in the team. Not just with management but it builds camaraderie amongst all involved. The other thing I would add is to listen to your team and be their speaker in situations where they might not be heard. Most of us have heard the saying “the customer is always right.” Most of the time this isn’t true, but in the cases where the employee was wrong, management must learn to communicate without choosing a side and defuse the situation. For trust amongst the team is built in communication and difficult situations. At least that’s what I have learned through my experience.