Answer :
The communication-based program that would utilize the principle of working effectively with audiences to best begin to restore broken trust between employees and management is:
a. Town hall meetings where management pledges to listen to employees' grievances and take them into more serious consideration
Here's how each option relates to the situation and why option (a) is the most appropriate:
a. **Town hall meetings where management pledges to listen to employees' grievances and take them into more serious consideration:**
- This option directly addresses the trust issue by providing a platform for open communication between management and employees.
- Town hall meetings allow management to demonstrate their willingness to listen to employees' concerns and grievances.
- By pledging to take these grievances seriously, management shows a commitment to understanding and addressing the issues that have eroded trust.
- This approach fosters transparency and gives employees a voice in the decision-making process, which can help rebuild trust over time.
b. **The offer to work more hours with a higher rate of overtime pay:**
- This option focuses on financial incentives rather than addressing the underlying trust issues.
- While increased pay can be motivating, it does not directly address the lack of trust between employees and management.
c. **An incentive program where employees push high-margin items in exchange for greater amounts of paid vacation:**
- This option introduces a new incentive program, which may be seen as a distraction if trust is not first established.
- Offering incentives without addressing trust issues may not be effective and could be perceived as superficial.
d. **The release of an internal store magazine, with features on different employees and their strengths at work:**
- This option aims to highlight employee achievements but does not directly address the broken trust between employees and management.
- While internal magazines can improve morale and employee recognition, they do not necessarily rebuild trust unless they are part of a broader strategy that addresses underlying issues.
### Conclusion:
Option (a), town hall meetings where management pledges to listen to employees' grievances and take them into more serious consideration, is the best choice for beginning to restore broken trust. It demonstrates a commitment to open communication, transparency, and addressing concerns directly, which are crucial steps in rebuilding trust between employees and management.
