Introduction - ISORESS
UNIT B2 – FAIR OPERATING PRACTICES
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Contents
Introduction B2
Section B2_1 Labour and Social Standards
Section B2_2 Fair and Sustainable Partnerships with Business Partners
Section B2_3 Communication
Section B2_4 Fair Pay and Other Benefits for Staff
Section B2_5 Diversity and Equality
Section B2_6 Education and Training
Section B2_7 Staff Orientation and Employer Attractiveness
Revision B2
|Section |Activity |Estimated time |Score |
|Introduction B2 |1 |5 |5 |
| |2 |10 |7 |
| |3 |10 |10 |
| |4 |5 |8 |
| |TOTAL |30 minutes |30 points |
|Section B2_1 |5 |5 |5 |
|Labour and Social Standards | | | |
| |6 |10 |12 |
| |7 |10 |10 |
|Section B2_2 |8 |5 |8 |
|Fair and Sustainable Partnerships with Business Partners | | | |
| |9 |25 |24 |
| |10 |10 |10 |
| |11 |10 |10 |
| |12 |10 |12 |
|Section B2_3 |13 |30 |4 |
|Communication | | | |
| |14 |30 |0 |
| |15 |35 |8 |
| |16 |5 |0 |
|Section B2_4 |17 |35 |12 |
|Fair Pay and Other Benefits for Staff | | | |
|Section B2_5 |18 |10 |8 |
|Diversity and Equality | | | |
| |19 |40 |30 |
| |20 |5 |7 |
|Section B2_6 |21 |35 |25 |
|Education and Training | | | |
| |22 |20 |5 |
|Section B2_7 |23 |10 |12 |
|Staff Orientation and Employer Attractiveness | | | |
| |24 |10 |10 |
| |25 |10 |8 |
|B2_1- B2_7 |TOTAL |360 mins |220 points |
|Revision B2 |26 |20 |20 |
| |27 |10 |10 |
| |TOTAL |30 mins |30 points |
Introduction B2
Activity 1 Estimated Time: 5 mins Score: 5 points
CSR Integration is divided into six main topics: Environment, Fair Operating Practices, Consumer Issues, Community Involvement & Development, Human Rights and Labour Practices. This unit is dedicated to Fair Operating Practices.
Read the statements describing CSR practices. Choose five of them which relate to Fair Operating Practices. Tick the items you have chosen.
The learners have to choose (tick) the correct statements. After completing the task the learners can compare their answers with the correct ones.
CORRECT ANSWERS ARE MARKED IN GREEN
□ managing available natural and energy resources efficiently
□ working to provide high quality and safe products as well as services
□ offering equal wages for women and men
□ trying to handle transactions based on healthy, fair and equal partnerships with business partners
□ providing a broad range of products and services including training to the community on healthy and responsible consumption
□ treating employees fairly and ethically
□ conducting a waste reduction policy
□ building a better future through collaborative creation
□ following the principles of reducing, reusing, recycling and responsible disposal
□ complying with laws and regulations, and conduct transparent and fair corporate activities with a strong commitment to ethical behaviour
□ prioritizing the customer's perspective
□ creating space for employees' rest
□ supporting and respecting the protection of internationally proclaimed human rights
□ offering training to the community on healthy and responsible consumption
Activity 2 Estimated Time: 10 mins. Score: 5 points
Read the text. Then answer the questions, choose A, B or C without looking back at the text.
Partners have to translate the article or adapt a similar one in national language and make their own exercises.
The learners have to choose A, B or C by clicking the correct option.
CSR – A Short Discussion
Nowadays an entrepreneur is not only responsible for creating a good product or service- acting successfully on the modern market means more than that.
In the 19th century the first entrepreneurs started to focus more on their staff in order to provide them with better working conditions: company-owned apartments, further training and health insurance are only some of the key items. The overall aim was to build up and keep capable staff over years in order to face the growing competition on the market. This included already the idea of a modern CSR policy.
In the past years, more and more players have been getting involved and interested in business operating practices clients and stakeholders in terms of sales and investment, suppliers and producers at home and abroad in terms of production. By using state-of-art technologies, the production process is more transparent for clients as they can easily search for information on the internet. Moreover, there is an increased client awareness for CSR and Fair Operating Practices which can immediately influence consumers’ buying decisions in a positive or negative way. Social media offer a wide forum to place any positive and negative feedback and spread it among potential clients. So handling CSR issues in SMEs is becoming more challenging.
(written by the ISORESS project)
CORRECT ANSWERS ARE MARKED IN GREEN
Question 1
In the ________________________ the first entrepreneurs started to focus more on their staff in order to provide them with better working conditions.
A. 19th century
B. 1920s
C. 20th century
Question 2
There is an increased client awareness for CSR and Fair Operating Practices which can immediately influence __________________________ in a positive or negative way.
A. business spending
B. world economy
C. consumers’ buying decisions
Question 3
The production process has become more transparent because of __________________________.
A. information on the Internet
B. industrial espionage
C. frequent newsletters
Question 4
__________________________ are the powerful tool for sharing experiences regarding Fair Operating Practices.
A. Employees’ meetings
B. Mobile apps
C. Social media
Question 5
Handling CSR issues including Fair Operating Practices is becoming __________________________.
A. less profitable.
B. more challenging
C. less important.
Activity 3 Estimated Time: 10 mins. Score: 10 points
Part 1
You are waiting for an interview in a big business house where several companies are located. You are able to listen to some of the dialogues in two manager office rooms. It seems that there are different approaches of how to deal with CSR in these two companies.
The A Company has a CSR concept and implements as many activities as possible.
The B Company is doing business mainly with profit orientation.
Read the short dialogues.
Which of them would you allocate to the A Company and which to the B Company?
The learners have to choose A or B.
Dialogue 1 A B
Dialogue 2 A B
Dialogue 3 A B
Dialogue 4 A B
Dialogue 5 A B
Dialogue 6 A B
Dialogue 7 A B
Dialogue 8 A B
Dialogue 9 A B
Dialogue 10 A B
CORRECT ANSWERS
Dialogue 1 A B
Dialogue 2 A B
Dialogue 3 A B
Dialogue 4 A B
Dialogue 5 A B
Dialogue 6 A B
Dialogue 7 A B
Dialogue 8 A B
Dialogue 9 A B
Dialogue 10 A B
Dialogue 1
Secretary: Good morning. Today my little baby is ill and I should see the doctor with her. Is it possible that I leave the office for two hours in the afternoon? I will come back afterwards and complete my full working time for today.
Manager: No, you have to be here for the time when I am here.
Secretary: But the doctor will not be available by the time we have finished.
Manager: That’s your problem.
Dialogue 2
Young Man Good morning. I am going to get married next month, that’s the reason why I would like to get more money.
Manager: Sure, I understand your point. However, we have to respect our company policy that has clear rules when and how the salaries are increased and promotions are handled. You know that you are able to receive extra money at any time e.g. when you come up with a suggestion for improvement.
Young Man: Thank you very much for all the info. But, first of all I have to plan my wedding…..
Dialogue 3
Young Lady Hallo. I often have to answer the phone talking to our clients in English. Since my English is not very good, I would like to attend a course in Business English.
Manager: You are 25 years old and you are going to marry and have children soon. So it is not worth investing in your language skills now.
Young Lady: It is a pity, I wish I were able to communicate better with our clients.…..
Dialogue 4
Engineer: Good morning.
Manager: Good morning. How can I help you?
Engineer: On my business trip to our supplier in South America I found out that they do not follow fair trade rules. I checked for an alternative supplier there, but the one which cares about fair trade is 50% more expensive.
Manager: This price is not acceptable, it would cut our profit. Let’s keep the established supplier.
Dialogue 5
Secretary: In order to check the satisfaction of our staff, I would suggest to make a survey for them.
Manager: It will take some time to create the survey and analyse the results – but go ahead with it.
Dialogue 6
Young staff My father would like to do some online shopping on our website. However, he is not able to understand everything because there are so many technical terms.
Manager: I am sure you can explain them to him. It is great to have more clients in our online shop.
Dialogue 7
Secretary: I found out that a social enterprise here in our town is offering mailing services. They fold letters, put them in the envelopes and prepare everything for mailing. They employ disabled people. Their prices are fair. I would suggest trying their services which would save us a lot of time with mailings and we apart from that we will involve a local enterprise supporting disabled people.
Manager: Please check their prices, but basically the idea is fine.
Dialogue 8
Young staff: I would like to ask you for an appraisal interview.
Manager: As you can see, it is always quite busy here – I have no time for extra work.
Dialogue 9
Worker: Our number of staff is increasing, so there are not enough seats for all of us when we rest. Is it possible to improve the situation?
Manager We are aware of this, and it is one of our priorities. We will soon come up with a provisional solution, from next year we will have new facilities – and everything will be solved. Even a gym is planned in the new building!
Dialogue 10
Secretary: Yesterday, I learned that my health problems are caused by Multiple Sclerosis. My doctor confirmed that I will be fit enough to work in my job as an office assistant. However, it may happen that I will be forced to use a wheelchair in the future. This will cause problems because my office is located on the second floor and there is no lift.
Manager: I am so sorry. That is really bad news.
Secretary: I hope something can be done.
Manager: Unfortunately, we do not have other facilities or rooms, so it will not be possible to change the room. I am sure you will find a new job.
Activity 4 Estimated Time: 5 mins. Score: 8 points
Read the dialogues once again. Which fair operating practices are they focused on? Choose A, B or C. Sometimes two answers are possible.
Multiple choice. The correct answers are marked in green.
The dialogues should be displayed. Then the A, B, C options. Each correct answer (in green) scores 1 point.
Dialogue 1
Secretary: Good morning. Today my little baby is ill and I should see the doctor with her. Is it possible that I leave the office for two hours in the afternoon? I will come back afterwards and complete my full working time for today.
Manager: No, you have to be here for the time when I am here.
Secretary: But the doctor will not be available by the time we have finished.
Manager: That’s your problem.
ANSWERS
A. working time models
B. treat employees fairly and ethically
C. support female employees’ career development
Dialogue 3
Young Lady Hallo. I often have to answer the phone talking to our clients in English. Since my English is not very good, I would like to attend a course in Business English.
Manager: You are 25 years old and you are going to marry and have children soon. So it is not worth investing in your language skills now.
Young Lady: It is a pity, I wish I were able to communicate better with our clients.…..
ANSWERS
A. offer equal wages for women and men
B. provide career training for employees at various stages in their careers
C. support female employees’ career development
Dialogue 4
Engineer: Good morning.
Manager: Good morning. How can I help you?
Engineer: On my business trip to our supplier in South America I found out that they do not follow fair trade rules. I checked for an alternative supplier there, but the one which cares about fair trade is 50% more expensive.
Manager: This price is not acceptable, it would cut our profit. Let’s keep the established supplier.
ANSWERS
A. respect local culture and customs
B. introduce a clear promotion system
C. supply chain management
Dialogue 7
Secretary: I found out that a social enterprise here in our town is offering mailing services. They fold letters, put them in the envelopes and prepare everything for mailing. They employ disabled people. Their prices are fair. I would suggest trying their services which would save us a lot of time with mailings and we apart from that we will involve a local enterprise supporting disabled people.
Manager: Please check their prices, but basically the idea is fine.
ANSWERS
A. regional suppliers
B. involvement of social enterprises
C. working time models
Dialogue 9
Worker: Our number of staff is increasing, so there are not enough seats for all of us when we rest. Is it possible to improve the situation?
Manager We are aware of this, and it is one of our priorities. We will soon come up with a provisional solution, from next year we will have new facilities – and everything will be solved. Even a gym is planned in the new building!
ANSWERS
A. respect local culture and customs
B. introduce a clear promotion system
C. create space for employees’ rest
STOP TO THINK
Read the dialogues at B Company again. Do you think they will retain customers and staff in the long run? Why? Why not?
Section B2_1 Labour and Social Standards
Activity 5 Estimated Time: 5 mins. Score: 5 points
Read the case studies and the guidelines for Labour and Social Standards. Match the case studies with the guidelines.
Matching activity
|GUIDELINE |CASE STUDY |
|provide supply chain management |Jim is the owner of a small shop with mobile phone equipment who opened his business |
| |recently. Due to the huge demand before Christmas, he hired a young girl to help him. In |
| |her second week she called in that she is sick, however, she asked for her regular |
| |payment. |
|conduct regular performance interviews |Bill is the designer of on-demand printed T-shirts. He opened the business only one year |
| |ago so he is very much focused on the creative art design of the T-shirts. The evening |
| |before he watched the news on TV and saw a building on fire in Bangladesh. He saw that |
| |many young people sewing T-shirts for big companies in Europe died because of lack of |
| |fire exits. |
|respect basic health protection for staff |Max has an online-shop with spices from all over the world. Every year he travels to |
| |visit the suppliers and check the working conditions, local prices and quality of the |
| |ingredients. He started to take notes in order to provide detailed information to the |
| |clients on his website and also to make the process from the plant to the client more |
| |transparent. |
|provide a written work contract |Peter is the owner of a small workshop producing roof constructions. He offers special |
| |protection shoes for his two colleagues since the wooden bars are very heavy and can |
| |cause injuries. |
|check the working conditions at suppliers |Susan runs a small shop for clothes and has five female part-time assistants. In order to|
| |find out about their attitude to work, their satisfaction and their performance, she |
| |started to conduct annual interviews with them. It turned out that many creative ideas |
| |for improving the business were mentioned by her staff during these interviews. |
CORRECT ANSWERS
|GUIDELINE |CASE STUDY |
|provide supply chain management |Max has an online-shop with spices from all over the world. Every year he travels to |
| |visit the suppliers and check the working conditions, local prices and quality of the |
| |ingredients. He started to take notes in order to provide detailed information to the |
| |clients on his website and also to make the process from the plant to the client more |
| |transparent. |
|conduct regular performance interviews |Susan runs a small shop for clothes and has five female part-time assistants. In order to|
| |find out about their attitude to work, their satisfaction and their performance, she |
| |started to conduct annual interviews with them. It turned out that many creative ideas |
| |for improving the business were mentioned by her staff during these interviews. |
|respect basic health protection for staff |Peter is the owner of a small workshop producing roof constructions. He offers special |
| |protection shoes for his two colleagues since the wooden bars are very heavy and can |
| |cause injuries. |
|provide a written work contract |Jim is the owner of a small shop with mobile phone equipment who opened his business |
| |recently. Due to the huge demand before Christmas, he hired a young girl to help him. In |
| |her second week she called in that she is sick, however, she asked for her regular |
| |payment. |
|check the working conditions at suppliers |Bill is the designer of on-demand printed T-shirts. He opened the business only one year |
| |ago so he is very much focused on the creative art design of the T-shirts. The evening |
| |before he watched the news on TV and saw a building on fire in Bangladesh. He saw that |
| |many young people sewing T-shirts for big companies in Europe died because of lack of |
| |fire exits. |
Activity 6 Estimated Time: 10 mins. Score: 12 points
Answer the 12 questions. Then read the comments.
There might be an automatic counter counting the score, then an appropriate comment appears. There is 1 point for each YES answer.
|In your company do you...? |YES |NO |
|provide written and detailed working contracts? | | |
|conduct regular interviews with your staff? | | |
|check for potential health risks and e.g. offer ear protection for activities related to noise? | | |
|respect the leisure period in between two shifts? | | |
|make sure that all staff members have the certificates (e.g. food hygiene and HACCP regulations)? | | |
|attend management training for updating your skills in labour and social standards? | | |
|visit your suppliers? | | |
|evaluate the quality of products and working conditions of your suppliers? | | |
|ask your suppliers for statements that their products do not involve child labour? | | |
|have signed documents from suppliers that they are using no hazardous substances or colours? | | |
|take responsibility for safety at workplace? | | |
|comply with laws and regulations? | | |
INTERACTIVE ANSWERS:
SCORE: 0-4
You have scored.... (number of points should be displayed) points out of 12.
You need to learn more about Labour and Social Standards. What you do is not sufficient to be competitive. You may soon lose your customers and staff members who may become less tolerant to failures in Labour and Social Standards. Think about some steps which you can take in order to develop proper policy. This will ensure long-lasting and permanent success.
SCORE: 5-9
You have scored.... (number of points should be displayed) points out of 12.
You have some knowledge on Labour and Social Standards. However, there is still some room for improvement. Find out some examples of good practice and try to adopt a new approach to Labour and Social Standards. This will raise your customers’ and your staff’s appreciation and loyalty. If you improve this policy you can expect success in the long run.
SCORE: 10-12
You have scored.... (number of points should be displayed) points out of 12.
You are doing very well, but you can always do better. Follow the adopted policy and strategies and try to maintain established standards. However, be alert, think of new innovative solutions to be ahead of your competitors!
Activity 7 Estimated Time: 10 mins. Score: 10 points
Part 1
Read the introduction. Classify the following as positive or negative practice related to Labour and Social Standards.
An importer of foods such as coffee, tea, spices and exotic fruit, is aware of the fact that he has to provide a transparent supply chain management, Due to the range of products from other countries with lower labour and social standards there might be the risk that suppliers do not fully commit with the standards in Europe. In case of a failure, the clients might not buy the products anymore which would lead to a lack of revenues and profits.
The entrepreneur has introduced a number of measures. Which guidelines do you think they follow?
DRAG AND DROP
1. pay fair prices in the countries of origin
2. partnerships with small producer groups
3. support strong price competition among suppliers
4. promote organic production
5. rely on one single producer
6. be confident in the national laws all over the world
7 provide pre-financing
8. search for huge revenues, e.g. with a cooperation with global players in online sales
9. ignore child labour
10. end-to-end fair trade chain from producer to consumer
CORRECT ANSWERS
|POSITIVE |NEGATIVE |
|1. pay fair prices in the countries of origin |3. support strong price competition among suppliers |
|2. partnerships with small producer groups |5. rely on one single producer |
|4. promote organic production |6. be confident in the national laws all over the world |
|7 provide pre-financing |8. search for huge revenues, e.g. with a cooperation with global |
|10. end-to-end fair trade chain from producer to consumer |players in online sales |
| |9. ignore child labour |
Part 2
Now go to Good Practice Guide (link) and read example No.7: dwp eG Fairhandelsgesellschaft.
Section B2_2 Fair and Sustainable Partnerships with Business Partners
Activity 8 Estimated Time: 5 mins. Score: 8 points
How do companies ensure fair and sustainable partnerships with business partners? Choose SHOULD or SHOULDN’T before each statement.
Choice between two options.
CORRECT ANSWERS ARE MARKED IN GREEN
Companies...
1. SHOULD / SHOULDN’T pay their invoices regularly.
2. SHOULD / SHOULDN’T communicate on a regular basis with their business partners.
3. SHOULD / SHOULDN’T use dumping practices with their suppliers.
4. SHOULD / SHOULDN’T give honest positive and negative feedback to their suppliers.
5. SHOULD / SHOULDN’T just see their own profit.
6. SHOULD / SHOULDN’T be reliable with midterm or long-term contracts with suppliers.
7. SHOULD / SHOULDN’T play off competitive suppliers against each other.
8. SHOULD / SHOULDN’T respect the role of reliable suppliers for their own products.
Activity 9 Estimated Time: 25 mins. Score: 24 points
Part 1 maximum 16 points
Read the case studies below. What would you do in each case?
There should appear interactive comments with the score when the participants choose a particular option.
Case study 1
You are receiving an invoice from your supplier that is not correct. Instead of 100 units the supplier just charges you 10 units of the product.
What would you do?
A. I wait until the final day of the payment terms before I transfer the amount mentioned on the invoice.
Interactive comment: 0 points
You have chosen A which is the worst choice! You risk that you will lose your supplier for two different reasons: late payment and lack of honesty in the mutual business partnership. This partnership will not be a sustainable one. You haven’t scored any points!
B. I would communicate with the supplier that the invoice might not be correct. I offer him to pay for this invoice and ask for an additional invoice for the rest of the units. When the issue is solved and I receive the additional invoice I will pay it within some days. With the swift payment I will respect the time that was necessary to solve the problem. It has been quite a long time since delivery and the supplier has not received the money for the products which I have already sold and for which my clients have paid me already.
Interactive comment: 4 points
You have chosen B which is the best option. In order to build up a fair and sustainable partnership with business partners, it is recommended to act with honesty. Maybe this time, it is for the benefit for your business partner that you mention that he undercharged you. However, vice versa it could be for your benefit when your business counterparts act in the same way. Being honest like this will improve your position towards your supplier, e.g. when there is a shortage of product availability the supplier might consider your orders more urgently than those from new business partners. You have scored 4 points which is the maximum. Congratulations!
C. I would wait until the final day of the payment terms. Then I will inform the supplier that the invoice might not be correct and that I will wait with payment until the issue is solved and I receive a correct invoice.
Interactive comment: 1 point
You have chosen C which is definitely not the best choice. Although you have informed the supplier about the mistake on the invoice, you are postponing the payment. To run a business successfully it is requested that the clients pay their invoices on the agreed payment terms. Any delay might cause financial problems for the supplier who had fulfilled his part of the business contract – which is the timely delivery – correctly. As a result the supplier might go bankrupt and for this reason you may lose a reliable supplier. You have scored just 1 point.
Case study 2
You open a small shop with ecological products in a rural area with a developed farming industry. You are just establishing the business partnerships and receive a price list from a national supplier. Due to the size of the company they can offer good prices for all products. However, as a part of their policy they ask for exclusive delivery. That means that you will not be able to order from any other supplier.
What would you do?
A. I will accept their terms of delivery and work with them exclusively as it is an easy way of handling my business with only one supplier.
Interactive comment: 1 point
You have chosen A. That’s probably not the best choice when starting your business. You will not be very flexible to react to the demands of your clients. Clients that buy ecological products might ask for local products in order to save the environment with short delivery distances and with supporting the local farming industry. You have to consider what is better for you: less work for your business with only one supplier or the flexibility to react to clients’ needs. You have scored just 1 point.
B. I will keep their offer in mind, however I will try to work with local producers in order to support both the ecological idea and the local offers in the farming industry and beyond.
Interactive comment: 4 points
You have chosen B. That’s a good choice. It will be a challenge to implement fair and sustainable business partnerships with the local producers. However, you will certainly address your clients’ needs and you can vary your offer according to the season, etc. Moreover, the producers might be flexible in delivery due to short distances. In case this concept does not work for the future, you could still try to work with the national supplier. You have scored 4 points which is the maximum. Congratulations!
C. I would just ignore their request for exclusive delivery and order products from them as well as from local producers.
Interactive comment: 0 points
You have chosen C. That’s a very bad choice. It can really have negative impact on your future business because you are not reacting in the correct way towards the national supplier. Your way of reacting may even lead to a legal dispute at court with the supplier. Moreover, you will make your local suppliers compete with a national supplier which they might not be happy with. Instead of a win-win situation this creates a lose-lose situation and you will neither build up a sustainable partnership with the national supplier nor with the local producers. You haven’t scored any points!
Case study 3
You are the owner of a local bakery. Due to Christmas Holidays your shop is closed on December 25. However, you meet the owner of a hotel, you have been cooperating with for a long time, on Christmas Eve (December 24). He explains that his guests have consumed much more bread rolls for dinner than he had calculated and bought. So there will be a shortage of bread rolls for the breakfast next day. He asks you whether you could help him.
What would you do?
A. I wouldn’t do anything. Christmas time is the only time during the year which I can spend with my family. Each business has its own risk!
Interactive comment: 0 points
You have chosen A. That’s not a good choice. You are convinced that it’s the customer’s fault and you just consider your own advantage and benefit in this situation. Think about more serious consequences, what if the client changes to another bakery because he is not happy about your customer orientation? Moreover, you should be more customer-orientated, so that you support him to find a solution to the problem.
You haven’t scored any points!
B. I would express my regret that I cannot offer any fresh bread-rolls. However, I would make the offer that I have stored some bread-rolls in the freezer which I could offer him. He could put them into his oven in the morning and for the hotel guests they would be like fresh bread-rolls.
Interactive comment: 4 points
You have chosen B. That’s the best possible choice. You take care of your customer and his issue. You show him that even if your bakery is closed you try to find a constructive solution for him. This will help to maintain a sustainable business partnership for the future.
You have scored 4 points which is the maximum. Congratulations!
C. I would recommend a competitor.
Interactive comment: 2 points
You have chosen C. That’s a good choice but not the perfect one. With the recommendation you show the client that you support him with the problem. However, you risk that the client will build up a business partnership with your competitor that might be more flexible during the holiday time. You have scored just 2 points.
Case study 4
You are running a small coffee-roasting house offering a variety of high-quality roasted coffee beans from South America, Asia and Africa. Due to a local fire at the store of one of your major suppliers from South America the majority of their annual production was destroyed. They inform you that they will have some difficulties with delivery of the quantities this year. However, for the next year they will be prepared to do business as it was the years before.
What would you do?
A. I would inform them that I am interested in receiving the full quantities every year and I will no longer work with them.
Interactive comment: 0 points
You have chosen A. That’s not a good choice. If you worked with this supplier for years and he delivered high-quality products you should also think of your clients that used to buy these coffee beans. Will they change to another product you offer or will they change to another competitor? Moreover, you should understand that supplier is in a severe situation which was not caused by doing bad business but by external reasons. You could support him with your confirmation of a continuous partnership. You haven’t scored any points!
B. I would express my regret for the damage and emphasize the long-term high quality of their products as well as the good cooperation with them. Moreover, I would inform them I would agree with a minor quantity this year and would like to receive the regular quantity next year. I would inform my clients about the unforeseen situation and the shortage this year which will not influence the quality of the product in the next years. I might suggest some alternatives for this year.
Interactive comment: 4 points
You have chosen B. That’s a very good choice. You show that you care about your business partner as well your clients. It’s a very good decision to order the available quantity and at the same time inform your clients about the unforeseen situation. Once the clients are informed they will also understand the situation better and look forward to receiving the preferred coffee beans in a lower quantity and in normal quantity in the years to come. With this decision you will support your business partner who is in a severe economic situation and show commitment and understanding. You have scored 4 points which is the maximum. Congratulations!
C. I would tell them that I have to meet the needs of my clients and will change to another supplier that is able to deliver the required quantity. If your business partner will be able to offer the planned quantity in the subsequent year he could be considered as a supplier once again.
Interactive comment: 2 points
You have chosen C. That’s not a very bad choice. You make sure that your clients will be able to buy the quantities they used to buy. However, in this case you are only considering the client’s point of view. However, you do not support your business partner who is in a severe economic situation. It would be a good idea to build on the long-term business partnership and support the supplier as well as inform the clients that this year there is only a reduced quantity of this product available but it will be solved in the years to come. You have scored just 2 points.
Part 2
Match each case study with the recommendations. There are two recommendations for each case study.
DRAG AND DROP - 8 points
1) respect contract regulations
2) act with transparency towards the clients
3) pay invoices to business partners during the timeframe set with the payment terms
4) be flexible to react to clients’ needs
5) be business partner orientated to solve a problem
6) be honest in order to support the mutual business partnership
7) support long-term business partners in difficult situations
8) not only see one’s own benefit
|CASE STUDY |Recommendation 1 |Recommendation 2 |
| |You should... |You should... |
|Case study 1 | | |
|Case study 2 | | |
|Case study 3 | | |
|Case study 4 | | |
Drag and drop
Recommendation 1 and 2 - any order
ANSWERS
|CASE STUDY |Recommendation 1 |Recommendation 2 |
| |You should... |You should... |
|Case study 1 |pay invoices to business partners during the |be honest in order to support the mutual |
| |timeframe set with the payment terms |business partnership |
|Case study 2 |be flexible to react to clients’ needs |respect contract regulations |
|Case study 3 |be business partner orientated to solve a |not only see one’s own benefit |
| |problem | |
|Case study 4 |support long-term business partners in |act with transparency towards the clients |
| |difficult situations | |
Activity 10 Estimated Time: 5 mins. Score: 10 points
Match parts of the sentences.
Drag and drop / matching
Part A
|Whenever relevant and feasible I involve social enterprises as |… to support their business and the local economy. Moreover, short |
|business partners in order ... |distances improve the flexibility in unforeseen situations. |
|I work with regional suppliers... |… to create and keep a mutual business partnership. |
|My own benefit is important, however sometimes it might be |… to act with trust and mutual recognition in a business |
|advisable... |partnership. |
|To pay one’s invoices regularly and on time will help ... |... to support the idea of Corporate Social Responsibility. |
|It is necessary to respect the conditions set in business contract |... to react with flexibility and creativity to unforeseen |
|in order... |situations with business partners and clients. |
CORRECT ANSWERS
|Whenever relevant and feasible I involve social enterprises as |… to support the idea of Corporate Social Responsibility. |
|business partners in order … | |
|I work with regional suppliers… |… to support their business and the local economy. Moreover, short |
| |distances improve the flexibility in unforeseen situations. |
|My own benefit is important, however sometimes it might be |… to react with flexibility and creativity to unforeseen situations |
|advisable... |with business partners and clients. |
|To pay one’s invoices regularly and on time will help … |… to create and keep a mutual business partnership. |
|It is necessary to respect the conditions set in business contract |… to act with trust and mutual recognition in a business |
|in order... |partnership. |
Part B
|I called my supplier immediately when I found a box of rotten fruits|… to make sure that they know the products, the production processes|
|in the delivery because I wanted … |but also to build a good partnership between the two companies. |
|I organized several excursions for my staff to visit the supplying |… to provide added-value for the client and also support local |
|companies because I wanted… |business partnerships. |
|I included regional offers in my business, e.g. in my bakery I sell |… to help them to handle the situation in the best way rather than |
|honey from a local producer, because I wanted… |improving their problems by a sudden withdrawal. |
|I have trustful relationships with many of my local competitors – in|... to react with mutual honesty in our business partnership and |
|my case, the local carpenters - because I also wanted… |help him to check the matter. |
|I support my business partners in times of crises in their field |… to build on these partnerships in case of problems such as |
|because I wanted… |shortage of materials or cooperation for huge orders that one of our|
| |companies will be not able to handle on its own. |
CORRECT ANSWERS
|I called my supplier immediately when I found a box of rotten fruits|... to react with mutual honesty in our business partnership and |
|in the delivery because I wanted … |help him to check the matter. |
|I organized several excursions for my staff to visit the supplying |… to make sure that they know the products, the production processes|
|companies because I wanted... |but also to build a good partnership between the two companies. |
|I included regional offers in my business, e.g. in my bakery I sell |... to provide added-value for the client and also support local |
|honey from a local producer, because I wanted… |business partnerships. |
|I have trustful relationships with many of my local competitors – in|... to build on these partnerships in case of problems such as |
|my case, the local carpenters - because I also wanted… |shortage of materials or cooperation for huge orders that one of our|
| |companies will be not able to handle on its own. |
|I support my business partners in times of crises in their field |... to help them to handle the situation in the best way rather than|
|because I wanted… |improving their problems by a sudden withdrawal. |
Activity 11 Estimated Time: 10 mins. Score: 10 points
Put the following events in the correct order. The first one and the last one have been already put in the correct place.
Drag and drop exercise, the learners try to fit the gaps, if they fail their choice is rejected with the info: “Try again!”
set up product selections according to clients’ needs
receive deliveries
make business plan
ask business partners for their offers
place orders with business partners
do research about clients’ needs
pay invoices
check product quality
look for potential business partners
check business partners’ terms of delivery, payment, etc.
|1. |select a business area |
|2. | |
|3. | |
|4. | |
|5. | |
|6. | |
|7. | |
|8. | |
|9. | |
|10. | |
|11. | |
|12. |establish regular business partnership |
ANSWERS/CORRECT ORDER
1) select a business area
2) do research about clients’ needs
3) make a business plan
4) set up a product selection according to clients’ needs
5) investigate for potential business partners
6) ask business partners for their offers
7) check business partners’ terms of delivery, payment, etc.
8) place orders with business partners
9) receive deliveries
10) check product quality
11) pay invoices
12) establish regular business partnership
Activity 12 Estimated Time: 10 mins. Score: 12 points
Answer the 12 questions. Then read the comments.
|In your company do you...? |YES |NO |
|cooperate with social enterprises? | | |
|pay invoices as set out in the terms of payment? | | |
|inform clients in case there is a shortage in delivery with a supplier? | | |
|contact suppliers in order to give them feedback on the product quality? | | |
|have business partnerships with local suppliers? | | |
|treat your suppliers with respect? | | |
|support the suppliers also in exceptional situations? | | |
|meet or visit your business partners regularly? | | |
|exchange knowledge with your business partners? | | |
|have long-term contracts with your business partners? | | |
|communicate clients’ needs and requests to your suppliers? | | |
|react with honesty towards your suppliers? | | |
INTERACTIVE ANSWERS:
SCORE: 0-4
You have scored.... (number of points should be displayed) points out of 12.
You need to learn more about fair and sustainable partnerships with business partners.
What you do is not sufficient to rest on one’s laurels. Because of the way you do business, you may lose some of your suppliers and/or some customers. You might even risk to end up in court. Think about some steps which you can take in order to develop proper policy for fair and sustainable partnerships with business partners. This will show your social responsibility and special focus on business partnerships.
SCORE: 5-9
You have scored.... (number of points should be displayed) points out of 12.
You have some knowledge on fair and sustainable partnerships with business partners. However, there is still some room for improvement. Find out some examples of good practice and try to adopt a new approach to business partnerships. This will bring you sustainable relationships with business partners. If you improve your business partnership policy you will avoid unpleasant situations and can expect long lasting success.
SCORE: 10-12
You have scored.... (number of points should be displayed) points out of 12.
You are doing very well, but you can always do better. Follow the adopted policy and strategies and try to maintain established fair and sustainable business partnership standards. However, think of new innovative solutions to be ahead of your competitors! Read some good practice examples to get more ideas.
Section B2_3 Communication
STOP TO THINK
Think for a while. Do you ask for your employees’ opinion about your performance as an employer?
How do you get feedback from your staff?
Activity 13 Estimated Time: 30 mins. Score: 4 points
Part 1
What do you usually talk about with your staff during appraisal interviews?
Tick the topics you usually discuss.
No points for this part.
|SURVEYING ACTIVITY |YES |NO |
|talking face to face about.. (formal or informal conversation) | | |
|1. their workplace | | |
|2. their training needs | | |
|3. the working conditions (health, safety, canteen, salary) | | |
|4. the contents of their work | | |
|5. their working time model | | |
|6. the teamwork | | |
|7. their ideas for innovations | | |
|8. the employer in terms of leadership | | |
|9. their development options | | |
|10. Others (please specify) | | |
Part 2
Think about some ways of collecting feedback. Which way(s) of collecting feedback do you find...
1) ...the easiest for the company to implement?
2) ...the most difficult for the company to implement?
3) ...the easiest for employees to respond to?
4) ...the most difficult for employees to respond to?
5) ...the most efficient (useful) for the company?
6) ...the least efficient (useful) for the company?
7) ...the most time-consuming for the company to collect and analyse?
8) ...the least time-consuming for the company to collect and analyse?
9) ...the most time-consuming for the customers to respond to?
10) ...the least time-consuming for the customers to respond to?
11) ...the most costly for the company?
12) ...the least costly to the company?
Part 3
Choose three criteria from part 2 and try to order the activities of getting employees’ feedback from the most positive to the most negative indicators.
Which of the activities scored the most positive values?
Part 4
Choose two activities related to surveying employees you have not used before, which scored the most positive values, and try to implement it in your business.
Part 5
Match the questions with the surveying activity.
Matching activity
|SURVEYING ACTIVITY |QUESTION |
|1. talking to employees face-to-face about their demands regarding the |“How satisfied are you with the relation of your salary compared |
|working contents (formal or informal conversation) |to other salaries in the industry?” Please rate using the scale |
| |from 1 to 5 where 1 means not satisfied at all and 5 means very |
| |satisfied.” |
|2. talking to employees face-to-face about their view regarding the |“How satisfied are you with communicating with clients in |
|internal communication (formal or informal conversation) |English?” |
|3. talking to employees face-to-face about their needs for training |“How satisfied are you with your level of autonomy?” |
|(formal or informal conversation) | |
|4. administering a questionnaire / survey in a paper form to find out how|“How important is it for you to get information on new products |
|satisfied the employees are with their salaries |and services?” |
CORRECT ANSWERS
|SURVEYING ACTIVITY |QUESTION |
|1. talking to employees face-to-face about their demands regarding the |“How satisfied are you with your level of autonomy?” |
|working contents (formal or informal conversation) | |
|2. talking to employees face-to-face about their view regarding the |“How important is it for you to get information on new products |
|internal communication (formal or informal conversation) |and services?” |
|3. talking to employees face-to-face about their needs for training |“How satisfied are you with communicating with clients in |
|(formal or informal conversation) |English?” |
|4. administering a questionnaire / survey in a paper form to find out how|“How satisfied are you with the relation of your salary compared |
|satisfied the employees are with their salaries |to other salaries in the industry?” Please rate using the scale |
| |from 1 to 5 where 1 means not satisfied at all and 5 means very |
| |satisfied.” |
Activity 14 Estimated Time: 30 mins. Score: 0 points
There are not any points for this activity
Part 1
Read the following template of a staff questionnaire and find items in the staff questionnaire which relate to your business practice. Analyse the questions. Which questions could you use in your business practice?
|Staff Questionnaire |Importance |Satisfaction |
| |5……………1 |5……………1 |
|Working Contents |
|My work offers interesting contents. |
|There are health-promoting activities implemented (workplace, gym, canteen, etc.). |
|My working time model is sufficient for my work. |
|I like to work with my colleagues. |
|I have the possibility to contribute actively to my work. |
|Training-on-the-job is | | | | | |
|offered. | | | | | |
| |10% |36% |52% |1% |1% |
|Comments |I would appreciate opening hours on Saturday afternoons |
| |Why not open after 6.00 pm? Up to 8.00 pm? |
| |We love to shop after 12.00 on Saturdays |
|2. Products offered |too many |a bit too many |just OK |a bit too few |too few |
| |23% |27% |30% |14% |8% |
|Comments |I would prefer more regional farming products. |
| |Who will need 5 different olive oils? |
| |We love your fresh bread. |
|3. Competence of staff |too low |quite too low |just OK |high |very high |
| |2% |5% |13% |32% |48% |
|Comments |I appreciate your recommendations for cooking with your products. |
| |My daughter suffers from gluten allergy , you are so helpful with finding suitable products. |
| |In busy times there is a lack of personal advice. |
|4. Complaint Management|not in place |little in place |just OK |developed |highly developed |
| |1% |12% |72% |7% |8% |
|Comments |We have never had complaints about your products. ( |
| |Once I bought a piece of cheese which was mouldy. When I informed you, it was not a problem to get the money back.|
| |Is it possible to use the contact area on your website to send an email? |
|5. Website |not satisfying |sufficient |just OK |good |very good |
| |25% |31% |14% |18% |12% |
|Comments |I have no access to the Internet. |
| |It is not working properly on my mobile phone. |
| |The fonts are too small for me. |
| |Why do you not publish your weekly offers on the website? |
| |The navigation is very confusing. |
|6. CSR Report |Never read it |Took a short look |just OK |informative |Very informative |
| |36% |12% |5% |22% |23% |
|Comments |Spend your time with your core business! |
| |It is interesting to learn more about the origin of the products and their production which makes it clear why |
| |some prices might be higher than for other products from different producers. |
| |It is very transparent when you write about your engagement for social responsibility. |
| |A valuable contribution to our regional development. |
| |Did you think about the waste of energy and paper for producing this? |
|7. Public Relations |not in place |little in place |just OK |developed |highly developed |
| |18% |46% |21% |8% |7% |
|Comment |What about an open day? |
| |I have never seen any sponsoring from you at local events. |
| |Your flyer includes really important information. |
Part 2
Which of the following decisions would you make concerning your business performance? Tick the ones you think would be a good choice.
SUGGESTED ANSWERS ARE MARKED IN GREEN
➢ leave opening hours as they are
➢ open your shop on Saturdays until 2.00 pm
➢ have the same amount of products
➢ check the sales figures for comparable products that are offered from different producers
➢ offer training opportunities for my staff as done in the past
➢ stop training activities due to the convincing results for staff competence in the survey
➢ treat complaints as done before
➢ check the possibility of sending emails via the contact area of the website
➢ delete the website
➢ ask a website designer for advice concerning responsive design for all devices
➢ update the website content with weekly offers from the shop
➢ consider the CSR report as a waste of time
➢ publish the next CSR report only in digital version and promote it actively with posters in the shop
➢ make team meeting in order to think of public relations activities
➢ consider public relations activities to be sufficient
Part 3
Now look at the cost and comments of introducing each improvement. Would your decision change if your budget was limited? Calculate the total cost of changes (depending on the volume of order) in order to meet your customers’ expectations.
|DECISION |COMMENT |COST |
|open your shop on Saturdays until 2.00 pm |will require 2 staff members from 12.00 – |2 h x 2 people x hourly rate x 4 times a |
| |2.00 pm each Saturday, appr. 4 times per |month |
| |month | |
|check the sales figures for comparable |low revenues on certain products are also |- |
|products that are offered by different |risky in terms of expiry dates | |
|producers | | |
|offer training opportunities for my staff as |there is a set budget each year for training |- |
|done in the past | | |
|ask a website designer for advice concerning |a professional web designer has to be |Appr. 3 daily rates of the designer plus |
|responsive design for all devices |involved to change the website |costs for additional programmes |
|update the website content with weekly offers|can be updated in-house by employer or staff,|€100 for instruction / training (provided by |
|from the shop |if they are trained how to do it |the web designer – fixed price) |
|publish the next CSR report only in digital |creating the CSR report will be the same |-€800 |
|version and promote it actively with posters |costs, having it just in digital version will| |
|in the shop |cut costs | |
|arrange a team meeting in order to think of |team meeting will serve to create ideas, an |at least €500 as fixed budget |
|public relations activities |annual budget has to be set for public | |
| |relations activities | |
STOP TO THINK
Do you think the changes introduced to meet your customers’ expectations have to be very costly? Is it worth listening to your customers’ comments and adjust your performance according to their needs?
Activity 16 Estimated Time: 5 mins. Score: 0 points
Read the text about Benefits for companies – CSR and business success from the website of the German Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs. It clearly lists the advantages of CSR – even for family-run companies which are often SMEs. What do think, is it worth to work on CSR? And if so, why not publish a CSR report for your stakeholders, business partners and clients to promote what you do on CSR?
“Benefits for companies
There are many reasons why companies take CSR seriously. One of them is that it is in their own interest. This is an important factor, and indeed a positive one, because CSR is not a luxury, but something which benefits a company's business.
Especially smaller, family-run companies often feel an obligation to contribute to sustainable economic practices; they are guided by an approach that is very much in line with that of the “honourable merchant”. Many business owners feel that it is their responsibility to give back to and to make a positive impact on society, their staff and the environment. They see corporate responsibility as a normative, moral obligation.
CSR and business success
But CSR is about more than moral or ethical questions. CSR is a determining factor in a company's business success. The notion that the economy and the environment or running a business and social responsibility are antithetical to each other, and that CSR is therefore a luxury not everybody can afford, is outdated. Modern management theories are premised on the opposite idea: Sustainably run companies are often more successful in the long-term.
There are many reasons for this:
• Reputation: Being perceived as a responsible company helps businesses position themselves as attractive employers in times of ever greater shortages of skilled labour; it boosts customer loyalty or helps with tapping new groups of customers.
• Efficiency: Energy and resource efficiency reduce not just a company's ecological footprint but also its costs.
• Risk minimisation: When a company's occupational safety and health management is in good shape, costs are lower. There are fewer accident-related interruptions of production and workers miss fewer working days.
• Innovation: Companies which adapt to a changing environment early on, for example to higher energy costs, a scarcer supply of commodities and stricter regulation, will gain a competitive edge.”
Section B2_4 Fair Pay and Other Benefits for Staff
STOP TO THINK
Think about your business or the business you know well. How does the business deal with fair pay and other benefits for staff? From the perspective of a staff member: What would you appreciate in terms of fair pay and other benefits?
Activity 17 Estimated Time: 35 mins. Score: 12 points
Part 1
Choose the activities which you do in your business related to fair pay and other benefits for staff.
|ACTIVITY |Yes |No |
|establish a workers’ council | | |
|pay staff members at least the standard wage | | |
|have a kitchen with a micro-wave where employees can heat up their meal | | |
|offer vouchers for the local fitness centre instead of having your own gym | | |
|provide the employees with an option of being or becoming a member of a trade union | | |
|pay women and men equally for the same work | | |
|offer a discount when staff members buy your products or services | | |
|support corporate volunteering (staff members are doing volunteer work while being paid by their employer) | | |
|provide a staff room | | |
|offer a contribution to saving programmes | | |
|offer occupational pension programme | | |
|offer different working time models | | |
Interactive comment
Score: 0-4
You have scored ____(number of points should be displayed) out of 12 points. Your efforts in terms of fair pay and other benefits for staff are not satisfactory and the employees may feel disappointed. Read the following examples and try to introduce some more measures related to fair pay and other benefits for staff. Otherwise you may risk losing qualified employees.
Score: 5-8
You have scored ____(number of points should be displayed) out of 12 points. It means that you have adapted some measures for fair pay and other benefits for staff which may satisfy some of your employees. However, that may be not enough to perform as an employer. Go more deeply into the topic and try to introduce new solutions. That may help to have satisfied employees and a low fluctuation rate.
Score: 9-12
You have scored ____(number of points should be displayed) out of 12 points. It means you have employed a variety of strategies to satisfy your employees with fair pay and other benefits for staff. They may feel valued and appreciated. Keep on going like that and are likely to build a good employer reputation.
Part 2
Rate the activities according to cost, level of difficulty to implement, and usefulness to employees. Choose not applicable when it is irrelevant for your business.
For this activity there might be an automatic counter which adds up all values from the three tables. The learners will get a ready made solution then.
Use the scale from 1 to 5.
Cost 1 – the most expensive
5 – the least expensive
Difficulty 1 – the most difficult
5 – the least difficult
Usefulness 1 – the least useful
5 – the most useful
|ACTIVITY |COST |not applicable |
| |1 |2 |
| |1 |2 |
| |1 |
|“I am sorry, you are too old to get this job.” |no discrimination of ethnicity or colour |
|“A black person cannot have a front office position.” |no discrimination against disability |
|“You cannot have a day off for the Sugar Feast at the end of |no discrimination against sexual orientation |
|Ramadan.” | |
|“As an anti-nuclear activist you cannot be a salesperson for our |no discrimination against social origin |
|chocolate products anymore.” | |
|“You were on the TV news when they had a broadcast on the |provide gender equality |
|Christopher Street Day, so you can no longer work with our car | |
|repair shop.” | |
|“Our facilities are not accessible for wheelchairs.” |offer equal opportunities to all age groups |
|“Oh, you hold a university degree and your parents are just working |no discrimination against religions |
|class?” | |
CORRECT ANSWERS
|“As a woman you will not be able to become a manager.” |provide gender equality |
|“I am sorry, you are too old to get this job.” |offer equal opportunities to all age groups |
|“A black person cannot have a front office position.” |no discrimination of ethnicity or colour |
|“You cannot have a day off for the Sugar Feast at the end of |no discrimination against religions |
|Ramadan.” | |
|“As an anti-nuclear activist you cannot be a salesperson for our |no discrimination against political opinions |
|chocolate products anymore.” | |
|“You were on the TV news when they had a broadcast on the |no discrimination against sexual orientation |
|Christopher Street Day, so you can no longer work with our car | |
|repair shop.” | |
|“Our facilities are not accessible for wheelchairs.” |no discrimination against disability |
|“Oh, you hold a university degree and your parents are just working |no discrimination against social origin |
|class?” | |
Activity 19 Estimated Time: 40 mins. Score: 30 points
Part 1
Read the examples of good practices from Good Practice Guide.
There could be a link to each practice when clicking on the number.
Part 1 does not have any points to score.
Choose one practice which:
Good Practice No.
1. you like best. 7 9 11 12 33 55 56
2. you would appreciate as an employee. 7 9 11 12 33 55 56
3. you could transfer to/implement in your company. 7 9 11 12 33 55 56
4. might attract your employees’ attention. 7 9 11 12 33 55 56
5. would make your company competitive for hiring staff. 7 9 11 12 33 55 56
Links to good practice examples or a pop-up window (link) with the following summaries:
|Example 7 |
|dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft |
|The dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft imports foods (e.g. coffee, tea, spices, mangoes) and handicrafts at fair prices and conditions - |
|such as organic and social supplements and pre-financing - and as a wholesaler supplies organic food shops throughout Germany, Austria |
|and Switzerland with fair trade products. Private customers also receive the majority of dwp's fairly traded products in the online |
|shop. |
|Cooperation with social welfare organisations, working with focus on general interest needs and commitment for inclusion and |
|integration, such as reintegration of mentally ill people into the primary job market and training offers for adolescents with learning |
|difficulties or autism help to create meaningful work tasks. |
| |
|Example 9 |
|Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck |
|The goldsmith manufactures high-quality wedding rings, unique jewellery and small series of environmentally friendly and fair trade |
|precious metals and gemstones. In addition, the refurbishment, repair and recycling of jewellery, coins and dental gold are part of the |
|service offer. |
|They offer individualized working conditions (flexible + individual models for working hours and place of work) which mean better |
|reconciliation of work and family life (work-life-balance); higher performance due to less stress; know-how transfer for the benefit of |
|the company; continuity of employment. |
|There is a continuous development of the mission statement: orientation for self-responsible action; orientation for customers, |
|suppliers and other stakeholders; high identification of employees through active participation; individual development of professional |
|and personal skills; low error rate; low absence rate. |
| |
|Example 11 |
|boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH |
|Boeba Montagen- und Aluminum-Bau GmbH is a Berlin-based metal construction company in the district of Neukölln. About 25% of the |
|population in Neukölln have a migrant background. |
|Boeba Montagen- und Aluminum-Bau GmbH has about 50 staff members, among which 17 were not born in Germany. Three of them are people with|
|refugee background and some have been in Germany for less than one year: a 25-year-old aluminium welder, country of origin Iran; a truck|
|driver in his early 30s from Egypt and Mohammed (28) from Mali, they are Boeba’s new trainees. Integration gives the company the |
|opportunity to fill jobs in the long term, which is becoming increasingly difficult due to demographic trends in Germany and the |
|emerging skills shortage. |
| |
|Example 12 |
|Schmauder & Rau GmbH |
|Schmauder & Rau GmbH acts as a car dealer and a free car repair shop. The offer includes not only sales of new and second-hand cars but |
|also repairs, regular checks, etc. They are located in Baden-Württemberg, the south-western area of Germany. |
|The big wave of refugees that broke over Germany in 2015 was a reason for new activities. Regardless of political considerations, |
|Schmauder & Rau see as their task to make a contribution, at least to help on a case-by-case basis. In doing so, they have been making |
|positive experiences with the employment and training of refugees for many years. A 22-year-old Iraqi is currently learning the job of a|
|construction / metal painter specializing in vehicle painters. Last but not least, his experience has helped Schmauder & Rau to continue|
|to engage refugees in their business. Be it as an internship, a trainee or as a regular staff member. Making refugees to colleagues is |
|the aim of the company and they are proud of having the commitment of their team. |
| |
|Example 33 |
|Talin Spa (VI) |
|Talin Spa, founded in 1955, designs and manufactures seats and office furniture and accessories. The great attention to the evolution of|
|technologies and production systems is at the base of the company's strategic choices. Today, ecological, recyclable, non-toxic and |
|self-extinguishing ecological materials are used for most products. |
|The main objective of Talin Spa is to ensure economic, social and environmental sustainability of the company activities. The adoption |
|of codes of behaviour and management systems requires transparent management of relationships with employees and with customers and |
|suppliers and a timely check on the regularity and responsibility of the behaviours implemented. Talin Spa communicate outside and |
|inside the company activities and strategies, also based on codes of behaviour. |
| |
|Example 55 |
|Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. |
|Established in 1962 in Catalonia, this company works in the chemical products sector for the industry maintenance. The system of the |
|company is based on capital joint participation and labour. |
|The company bases its efforts on joining hands with its employees, creating a collaborative working system. On one hand, employees are |
|given the chance to be shareholders in the company and to participate in the meetings and therefore, in the decision-making processes. |
|By doing so, their employees are listened to, which also increases their commitment to the company and allows the company to get to know|
|the workers better. It also offers training for the employees’ children. They have developed a training plan addressed to young people |
|between 16 and 18 years old, and they also facilitate them do an internship during the summer period. By doing so, young people benefit |
|from a real working experience and are more prepared to face the challenges and meet the requirement of the world of work; the company |
|has at its disposal young workforce with the necessary preparation; and it is a helpful policy to fight against young unemployment. |
| |
|Example 56 |
|Asociación Alanna |
|Asociación Alanna was established in 2002 by a group of women and it carries out socio-educational programs aimed at the inclusion of |
|women in case of social exclusion. |
|This foundation allows its workers to organize their working time as their convenience. Employers have the chance to work as many hours |
|as they want in a certain day or period, accumulating free available hours to later cover his/her needs or use that free time as they |
|see fit. Workers in this way feel more comfortable at work because they are able to organize and balance their personal and private life|
|as well as decide about convenient working hours. This is also reflected in the working atmosphere which does not generate any level of |
|stress or conflict. It is also translated into an increase of the productivity, which is also beneficial for the company itself. |
|Besides, relationship based on trust is established between the organization and the workers, as they also become responsible for the |
|decisions taken. |
| |
Part 2
Choose those aspects from CSR integration apart from Fair Operating Practices which are also covered by the following examples.
Scroll down menu for each point with following choices.
The correct answers are marked in green.
Categories: The Environment
Consumer Issues
Community Involvement and Development
Human Rights
Labour Practices
1. dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
The Environment
Consumer Issues
Community Involvement and Development
Human Rights
Labour Practices
2. Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
The Environment
Consumer Issues
Community Involvement and Development
Human Rights
Labour Practices
3. Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
The Environment
Consumer Issues
Community Involvement and Development
Human Rights
Labour Practices
4. Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
The Environment
Consumer Issues
Community Involvement and Development
Human Rights
Labour Practices
5. Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
The Environment
Consumer Issues
Community Involvement and Development
Human Rights
Labour Practices
Part 3
Read the examples again. Choose the correct answer to each question.
The correct answers are marked in green.
Question 1
Which company offers internships during the summer period?
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Question 2
Which company offers fair trade food products?
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Question 3
Which company is mainly focused on the inclusion of women?
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Question 4
Which company is addressing the problem of demographic trends (ageing society)?
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Question 5
For which company are the refurbishment, repair and recycling of jewellery, coins and dental gold part of the service offered?
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Question 6
Which company is willing to help refugees at least on a case-by-case basis?
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Question 7
In which company mainly ecological, recyclable, non-toxic and self-extinguishing ecological materials are used for most products?
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Question 8
Which company implemented individual working time models that led to an increase of productivity?
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Question 9
Which company offers an online shop for their customers?
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Question 10
Which company addresses the problem of youth unemployment?
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Part 4
Read some of the comments from employees and business partners. What do you think which business do they refer to?
The correct answers are marked in green.
Quote 1
“I came to Germany in 2015 with many other refugees. In the beginning it was difficult to learn the new language and to understand the educational pathways in this country. However, when I received the official permission to be trained in dual system I was very happy – even more when I found an apprenticeship in a car repair shop.”
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Quote 2
“As an employee I am asked to actively participate in the development of the company. This makes me feel being appreciated by my employer. It is the same with my colleagues – no matter which position in the company they have. Our management confirmed that this involvement has positive impact on a lower error rate as well as a lower absence rate.”
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Quote3
“Before I joined the organisation I felt socially excluded. There was no option for me to find work because I am a single mother of three sons. Now I can adapt my working hours individually and in a way that I am able to manage everything even with my kids.”
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Quote 4
“I do believe in our products in particular because we use mainly ecological, recyclable and non-toxic materials. I feel that this is not only valuable for the customers but also for the staff as it respects the employees’ health in the production process.”
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Quote 5
“In the past I had some psychological problems. That is the reason why I am living in a supervised flat-sharing community of a social welfare organisation. Because of their close cooperation with the company I have the option to work although I would not be able to find and hold a position on the mainstream labour market.”
Although I was on holiday the builders kept me informed about work progress. And the news was always good. I didn’t have to worry about anything.”
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Quote 6
“I learnt that in Germany in some jobs there is a lack of skilled workers. Although I came to here as a refugee a few years ago I could find a training position in the construction industry and my work is highly appreciated by my employer. I am really happy about that.”
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Quote 7
“My family has never been able to afford to send their sons or daughters to university. So my brothers and I found employment. Nowadays I work in the chemical products sector. Although I am not educated like a manager, I feel that my company appreciates my knowledge and experience. I became a shareholder and have taken part in meetings and decision-making processes. This makes me feel happy since my knowledge and my experience is being considered valuable for the company.”
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Quote 8
“My company has adopted codes of behaviour, this means that e.g. any discrimination against other employees is not tolerated.”
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Quote 9
“Although being a migrant I was able to find a job. My company provides the same job offers for migrants as they do for non-migrants: internships, trainee positions and regular jobs.”
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Quote 10
“I am 17 years old and I am a student of Upper Secondary Education. However, this summer I did an internship with the company my mother is working for. They offer special training plans for my age group. It was a great opportunity to benefit from the experience of work-based learning as a young student.”
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Quote 11
“I am 17 years old and always had learning difficulties so I was not able to complete a school leaving certificate. Nevertheless I found a job that I like very much because I am able to understand my tasks and cooperate with my colleagues.”
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Quote 12
“In my company there is the option of flexible and individual models for the working hours and the place of work. For me this means a better work-life balance..”
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Quote 13
“I have always had problems to organize my working hours with my private life. My parents are in their 80’s and require some assistance. Being their only daughter I feel that I have to support them every day. With the new working time model offered by my organisation I am able to work as many hours I want in a certain period and accumulate free available hours. This helps me a lot, in particular when I have to take my parents to medical appointments which were fixed weeks ago. I can be sure that I will have this day off due to my accumulated working hours.”
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Quote 14
“In my district about 25% of the population have migrant background. I have never experienced any discrimination, I even feel highly appreciated by my employer.”
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Quote 15
“There is a high rate of unemployment in my country so it is a challenge to get a job for a young person. However, the organisation I work for offers special programmes for young people in order to fight against youth unemployment.”
CHOICES – SCROLL DOWN MENU
dwp eG Fairhandelsgenossenschaft (Example 7)
Thomas Becker - Atelier für Schmuck (Example 9)
boeba Montagen- und Aluminium-Bau GmbH (Example 11)
Schmauder & Rau GmbH (Example 12)
Talin Spa (VI) (Example 33)
Euroquímica de Bufi y Planas S.A. (Example 55)
Asociación Alanna (Example 56)
Activity 20 Estimated Time: 5 mins. Score: 7 points
Match the following terms with their descriptors.
MATCHING EXERCISE
|Diversity |The amount of time you spend doing your job compared with the amount of time you spend with your |
| |family and doing things you enjoy. |
|Equality |A difference between the way men and women are treated in society, or between what men and women do |
| |and achieve. |
|Work-life balance |The fact of many different types of things or people being included in something; a range of |
| |different things or people. |
|Reconciliation (of work and family |Treating a person or particular group of people differently, especially in a worse way from the way |
|life) |in which you treat other people, because of their skin colour, sex, sexuality, etc. |
|Discrimination |The process of making two opposite beliefs, ideas, or situations agree – in this case related to |
| |business and private life. |
|Harassment |The right of different groups of people to have a similar social position and receive the same |
| |treatment. |
|Gender gap |Behaviour that annoys or upsets someone. |
| |
CORRECT ANSWERS
|Diversity |The fact of many different types of things or people being included in something; a range of |
| |different things or people. |
|Equality |The right of different groups of people to have a similar social position and receive the same |
| |treatment. |
|Work-life balance |The amount of time you spend doing your job compared with the amount of time you spend with your |
| |family and doing things you enjoy. |
|Reconciliation (of work and family |The process of making two opposite beliefs, ideas, or situations agree – in this case related to |
|life) |business and private life. |
|Gender gap |A difference between the way men and women are treated in society, or between what men and women do |
| |and achieve. |
|Discrimination |Treating a person or particular group of people differently, especially in a worse way from the way |
| |in which you treat other people, because of their skin colour, sex, sexuality, etc. |
|Harassment |Behaviour that annoys or upsets someone. |
| |
Section B2_6 Education and Training
Activity 21 Estimated Time: 35 mins. Score: 25 points
Part 1
Education and Training of all staff members (including the management) is crucial for further developing the business and providing high-quality service to the customers. Moreover, it is important to motivate your staff and for this reason to assure their commitment to the company. This is why Education and Training can serve for professional and/or personal development purposes. Both developments are important for the company.
Match the different trainings below with the category they might belong to. Please consider that some of them might belong to both categories. Do also think of other sectors than your own one, e.g. a sewing course might be a matter of leisure for you, if you run a fashion shop offering basic tailor services to your clients then it should be treated differently.
Matching /Drag and drop OR Multiple choice?
|Title of the training |Professional Development |Personal Development |
|English as a foreign language- level B1 | | |
|HACCP training (“Hazard analysis and critical | | |
|control points” in order to avoid biological, | | |
|chemical, and physical hazards in food | | |
|production processes) | | |
|Which colours are best suited to my type? | | |
|Badminton | | |
|Asian cooking | | |
|Back therapy training | | |
|New CAD tools in mechanics | | |
|Project management | | |
|Team building | | |
CORRECT ANSWERS
|Title of the training |Professional Development |Personal Development |
|English as a foreign language- level B1 |X |X |
|HACCP training (“Hazard analysis and critical |X | |
|control points” in order to avoid biological, | | |
|chemical, and physical hazards in food | | |
|production processes) | | |
|Which colours are best suited to my type? |X |X |
|Badminton | |X |
|Asian cooking |X |X |
|Back therapy training |X |X |
|New CAD tools in mechanics |X | |
|Project management |X |X |
|Team building |X |X |
Part 2
There are several options on how to organize training activities. In particular for micro and SME companies it is of course a challenge to release their staff for training reasons due to limited time resources as well as limited financial funds.
Read about the following general training options that are also open to micro and SMEs or their staff.
1 Initial education or training
General or vocational education and training carried out in the initial education system, usually before entering working life.
Comments:
• some training undertaken after entry into working life may be considered as initial training (such as retraining);
• initial education and training can be carried out at any level in general or vocational education (full-time school-based or alternance training) or apprenticeship pathways.
2 Adult education
General or vocational education provided for adults after initial education and training for professional and/or personal purposes, which aims to:
• provide general education for adults in topics of particular interest to them (e. g. in open universities);
• provide compensatory learning in basic skills which individuals may not have acquired earlier in their initial education or training (such as literacy, numeracy) and thus to;
• give access to qualifications not gained, for various reasons, in the initial education and training system;
• acquire, improve or update knowledge, skills or competences in a specific field: this is continuing education and training.
Comment:
Adult education is close to, but not synonymous with continuing education and training.
3 Continuing education or training
Education or training after initial education and training – or after entry into working life aimed at helping individuals to:
• improve or update their knowledge and/or skills;
• acquire new skills for a career move or retraining;
• continue their personal or professional development.
Comment:
Continuing education and training is part of lifelong learning and may encompass any kind of education (general, specialised or vocational, formal or non-formal, etc.). it is crucial for employability of individuals.
4 E-learning
Learning supported by information and communication technologies (ICT).
Comments:
• e-learning is not limited to ’digital literacy’ (acquiring ICT skills). It may encompass multiple formats and hybrid methods: using software, internet, CDROM, online learning or any other electronic or interactive media;
• e-learning can be used as a tool for distance education and training but also to support face-to-face learning.
5 Erasmus+ mobility – learning abroad
Set to last until 2020, Erasmus+ doesn't just have opportunities for students. Merging seven prior programmes, it has opportunities for a wide variety of individuals and organisations.
Individuals: Erasmus+ has opportunities for people of all ages, helping them develop and share knowledge and experience at institutions and organisations in different countries.
Among others there are:
• Volunteering activities
Erasmus+ Volunteering Activities help young people travel abroad to participate in volunteering projects. As a volunteer, you commit yourself to the work of an organisation abroad. Volunteering projects can involve many different kinds of activities in areas such as youth work, cultural activities, social care or environmental protection. You volunteer on an unpaid and full-time basis.
• Traineeships with Erasmus+:
Erasmus+ supports traineeships (work placements) for students enrolled in vocational education and training (VET). These opportunities are also open to company-based apprentices and to recent VET graduates.
6 Corporate citizenship projects
Staff members can devote a certain amount of working time to social projects. Firstly, this might increase their social competences, e.g. when working with vulnerable clients. Secondly, they can also bring in their professional competence in order to support social projects or social organisations, e.g. with ICT, Accountancy or PR activities.
7 Training funding programmes
There is a number of funding programmes, not only on European level but on national or regional level that might support the learning/training of staff, e.g. there is a funding of attending specific courses or there is a certain budget for individual education. There are also funding programmes for trainees with restricted financial means.
8 In-company programmes
A company – independent from the number of staff members – can offer in-company programmes which take place within or beyond the working time. These might include sport activities, health prevention programmes, language learning and many others.
Please feel free to check for more options on your national context, e.g. on the internet, with the local chambers/authorities or with education providers in your region.
Part 3
Now read the following case studies and allocate them to the above mentioned training models/programmes by clicking a multiple choice option:
Case Study 1:
Sarah is working in a small sports shop in Germany, not far from the border to the Czech Republic. Due to the fact that there are many clients from the neighbouring country coming to their shopping for sports clothes and equipment, Sarah intends to improve her foreign language skills by attending a Czech language course. Since this will improve also her professional competences her boss agrees to cover the cost of the course. However, they find out that there is a special programme issued by the regional authorities in order to support the relationship to the neighbour country. They support each learning with a grant of 40 Euros per course.
SCROLL DOWN MENU
CORRECT ANSWER MARKED IN GREEN
1 Initial education or training
2 Adult education
3 Continuing education or training
4 E-learning
5 Erasmus+ mobility – learning abroad
6 Corporate citizenship projects
7 Training funding programmes
8 In-company programmes
Case Study 2:
Tom is in his last year of school. At present he is attending an internship with a car repair shop. He likes the boss and the team member in this business. Since the entrepreneur and the staff also appreciate his work he is offered an apprenticeship.
SCROLL DOWN MENU
CORRECT ANSWER MARKED IN GREEN
1 Initial education or training
2 Adult education
3 Continuing education or training
4 E-learning
5 Erasmus+ mobility – learning abroad
6 Corporate citizenship projects
7 Training funding programmes
8 In-company programmes
Case Study 3:
Susan, a tax consultant, and her two assistants decide to take part in the city marathon race. This is the reason why they meet 3 times a week in the evenings and train for the competition. Within a few weeks they feel how this training is supporting their fitness and their physical endurance.
SCROLL DOWN MENU
CORRECT ANSWER MARKED IN GREEN
1 Initial education or training
2 Adult education
3 Continuing education or training
4 E-learning
5 Erasmus+ mobility – learning abroad
6 Corporate citizenship projects
7 Training funding programmes
8 In-company programmes
Case Study 4:
Nancy works as a hairdresser in a shop together with her mother. Her mother will be celebrating her 60th birthday soon and is thinking about retirement. According to the national law it is required that the owner of a hairdresser shop possesses the Hairdresser Master Certificate. Her mother holds this certificate, but Nancy doesn’t. So she is going to start the appropriate training in order to run the shop in the future.
SCROLL DOWN MENU
CORRECT ANSWER MARKED IN GREEN
1 Initial education or training
2 Adult education
3 Continuing education or training
4 E-learning
5 Erasmus+ mobility – learning abroad
6 Corporate citizenship projects
7 Training funding programmes
8 In-company programmes
Case Study 5:
You want to learn more about CSR issues. This is the reason why you are currently working on the online part of the ISORESS course.
SCROLL DOWN MENU
CORRECT ANSWER MARKED IN GREEN
1 Initial education or training
2 Adult education
3 Continuing education or training
4 E-learning
5 Erasmus+ mobility – learning abroad
6 Corporate citizenship projects
7 Training funding programmes
8 In-company programmes
Case Study 6:
As a young cook Martin wants to learn about the Mediterranean cuisine. He is happy to be funded when doing an internship in an Italian Trattoria in Tuscany. The new knowledge, skills and competences will be certified with a Europass certificate.
SCROLL DOWN MENU
CORRECT ANSWER MARKED IN GREEN
1 Initial education or training
2 Adult education
3 Continuing education or training
4 E-learning
5 Erasmus+ mobility – learning abroad
6 Corporate citizenship projects
7 Training funding programmes
8 In-company programmes
Case Study 7:
Linda works as a pastry cook at the local bakery. Together with her boss she initiated a “Baking course for local specialities” for migrant children. Every three months they run this course in the kitchen facilities of the local primary school.
SCROLL DOWN MENU
CORRECT ANSWER MARKED IN GREEN
1 Initial education or training
2 Adult education
3 Continuing education or training
4 E-learning
5 Erasmus+ mobility – learning abroad
6 Corporate citizenship projects
7 Training funding programmes
8 In-company programmes
Case Study 8:
Alex works in a small carpenter business. Ten years ago he immigrated from Russia. In his firm he is responsible for ordering raw materials. Because of online shopping options and globalisation he has to improve his English language skills in order to perform his work successfully. His boss suggests that he should attend evening classes with the local education provider. Alex is happy to take part in the language course.”
SCROLL DOWN MENU
CORRECT ANSWER MARKED IN GREEN
1 Initial education or training
2 Adult education
3 Continuing education or training
4 E-learning
5 Erasmus+ mobility – learning abroad
6 Corporate citizenship projects
7 Training funding programmes
8 In-company programmes
Case Study 9
Betty is a waiter in a restaurant. Together with her boss she is searching for new ideas for decoration and innovative napkin folding. They find some videos on YouTube with clear instructions on how to do this. After having watched the films for a few times they are capable to perform it as they had learnt with the video.
SCROLL DOWN MENU
CORRECT ANSWER MARKED IN GREEN
1 Initial education or training
2 Adult education
3 Continuing education or training
4 E-learning
5 Erasmus+ mobility – learning abroad
6 Corporate citizenship projects
7 Training funding programmes
8 In-company programmes
Case Study 10
Richard is a graphic designer in a small advertising agency. Each year before Christmas, he creates a colourful poster to support the local children’s hospital when looking for new sponsors and ask for donations from the general public. This year he is using the new graphics programme for the first time.
SCROLL DOWN MENU
CORRECT ANSWER MARKED IN GREEN
1 Initial education or training
2 Adult education
3 Continuing education or training
4 E-learning
5 Erasmus+ mobility – learning abroad
6 Corporate citizenship projects
7 Training funding programmes
8 In-company programmes
Activity 22 Estimated Time: 20 mins. Score: 5 points
Part 1
Read the text below.
The above case studies showed that there is a range of learning needs and learning possibilities. As an employer you should be able to identify your own but also your staff’s learning needs. Beyond the job-related learning needs some staff members will appreciate it if you offer them learning opportunities for their personal development or following their individual interests. Please keep in mind that the support of learning options, either during the working hours or in leisure time, either paid or partly paid by the employer, increase the attractiveness for the workplace (please also see B2_7). Qualified and motivated staff is one of the key success factors for SMEs.
An annual interview is a perfect opportunity to find out about learning needs and learning motivation of the staff. Such kind of interview should be performed on a regular basis, not focused on the daily tasks and problems, but more on the long-term cooperation. It is a dialogue between an employer and employee in order to support staff autonomy, the commitment to the aims of the company and the fruitful cooperation with the employer. The employer will learn more about the staff satisfaction and be open-minded for the suggestions for improvement. It is crucial that the results of the interview are documented in terms of aims that are agreed by both partners. This is important that both partners are committed during the whole period. The evaluation of the results will be the start of the subsequent annual interview. For that reason, the aims should be set out following the SMART criteria:
S = specific (the aim should be clearly defined)
M = measurable (it should be possible to measure whether the aim is achieved or not)
A = achievable (reasonable to achieve it)
R = relevant (important for the job performance)
T = time-bound (with a defined time frame)
Please check which of the SMART criteria are met with the following excerpts from interviews (multiple choice):
There is one point for each question.
CORRECT ANSWERS ARE MARKED IN GREEN
1. Completion of an A2 English course (including exam) until the end of this year
A. specific
B. measurable
C. time-bound
2. Law firm: Marathon Training, 2 units per week during the working hours for 3 months
A. measurable
B. achievable
C. relevant
3. Café: HACCP Training as soon as possible
A. specific
B. relevant
C. time-bound
4. Beauty studio: “What is your style type” within next 3 months
A. specific
B. relevant
C. time-bound
5. Tax consultancy: “Excel”
A. specific
B. relevant
C. time-bound
Part 2
For a SME it might be difficult to find a reasonable compromise between ensuring a high level of support for the learning options of staff and also considering the relevant costs of it.
Analyse relevant cost options for the above mentioned activities. However, not always the cheapest option is the perfect one, e.g. in case, your company or your staff will require a formal certificate. Calculate how much money you would have to/would like to spend on it.
|Activity |Details |Cost |
|English A2 |Private teacher, can be started at any |€ 20 per lesson |
| |time |(at least 100 lessons required) |
| | | |
| | |Extra costs for exam |
|English A2 |Group of 8 students at adult education |€ 60 per 20 lessons |
| |centre |(at least 100 lessons required) |
| | | |
| |2 lessons a week (evening) |Extra cost of the final exam |
| | | |
| |Courses start in September and February | |
|Marathon Training |Private initiative of runners |€ 0 |
|Marathon Training |Private trainer |€ 30 per hour |
|HACCP |At Chamber of Industry and Commerce with|€ 80 |
| |official certificate | |
|HACCP |Done internally by the employer |€ 0 (working hour costs of employer) |
|What is your style? |Job shadowing at supplier company |€ 0 |
|What is your style? |Professional beauty school |€ 250 /2 days |
|Excel |Done internally by colleagues |€ 0 (working hour costs of staff) |
|Excel |Computer Training Centre |€ 500 /2 days |
Section B2_7 Staff Orientation and Employer Attractiveness
Activity 23 Estimated Time: 10 mins. Score: 12 points
Part 1 2 points for this part
Consideration and initiating structure are the two dimensions of leadership presented by an employer. Consideration means the state and the quality of caring about and respecting the staff and their needs. Initiating structure means defining aims and structuring tasks. For keeping up employees’ motivation both dimensions are important. A lack of consideration is frustrating for the staff because they do not feel respected by the employer whereas a lack of initiating structure leads to frustration due to confusing instructions or double work.
In each pair choose a statement which refers to consideration.
1.
( to create a working atmosphere where each staff member has to perform his/her tasks in a given order.
( to create a working atmosphere where each staff member is autonomous to decide on the order of performing his/her tasks, however taking into account clients’ needs and the obligations of the enterprise.
2.
( to react flexibly to the staff needs, e.g. with an adaptation of their time-schedule or flexible working hours for parents.
( to focus on clients’ needs and the company profit in order to be a successful entrepreneur which is attractive for new staff.
Part 2 No points for this part
Read the text on MVG Medienproduktion und Vertriebsgesellschaft mbH (GmbH) which is an excerpt from the ISORESS Good Practice Guide and learn how they combine upskilling of competences/learning opportunities (see B2_6 Education and Training) and personal development of the staff (see B2_7 Staff Orientation and Employer Attractiveness) which gives the company a Unique Selling Point (USP) in terms of employer attractiveness.
MVG Medienproduktion und Vertriebsgesellschaft mbH (GmbH)
Background:
MVG offers comprehensive services in the areas of lettershop, mailings, fulfilment and production management. As a mail order company and publisher, they are active with the distribution of fair trade products and one-world publications.
Fair operating practices:
Promotion of part-time degrees: during their time at MVG, 12% of employees have either already completed a part-time university degree or are currently studying. The study is supported by the company through financial means and/or flexible working time models.
Part 3 10 points for this part
Match the 10 definitions with the following terms often used in relation to staff orientation.
Matching activity or scroll down menu for each definition
|Term |Definition |
|Home office |Help that a company offers employees with personal problems that might affect their work. |
|Sabbatical |A period in which a woman is legally allowed to be absent from work in the weeks before and after |
| |she gives birth. |
|Incentive |Money that a woman is paid during the time she is legally allowed to be absent from work in the |
| |weeks before and after she gives birth to a baby. |
|Occupational pension |A period during which an employee can take time away from work to study or travel. |
|Part-time job |An advantage such as a pension plan, health insurance, or a car, that a company offers to employees |
| |in addition to their pay. |
|Maternity leave |Working for a company only for a few hours a day or week. |
|Maternity pay |A pension from an employer rather than the government. |
|Employee benefit |Something, especially money, that encourages a person or organization to do something. |
|Employee assistance Programme |The practice of dividing the duties and the pay of one job between two people who work at different |
| |times during the day or week. |
|Job-sharing |A room or area in someone's home used for work purposes usually with a phone, computer, fax etc. in |
| |it. |
CORRECT ANSWERS
|Term |Definition |
|Home office |A room or area in someone's home used for work purposes, usually with a phone, computer, fax etc. in|
| |it. |
|Sabbatical |A period during which an employee can take time away from work to study or travel. |
|Incentive |Something, especially money, that encourages a person or organization to do something. |
|Occupational pension |A pension from an employer rather than the government. |
|Part-time job |Working for a company only for a few hours a day or week. |
|Maternity leave |A period in which a woman is legally allowed to be absent from work in the weeks before and after |
| |she gives birth. |
|Maternity pay |Money that a woman is paid during the time she is legally allowed to be absent from work in the |
| |weeks before and after she gives birth to a baby. |
|Employee benefit |An advantage such as a pension plan, health insurance, or a car, that a company offers to employees |
| |in addition to their pay. |
|Employee assistance programme |Help that a company offers employees with personal problems that might affect their work. |
|Job-sharing |The practice of dividing the duties and the pay of one job between two people who work at different |
| |times during the day or week. |
Adapted from:
Activity 24 Estimated Time: 10 mins. Score: 10 points
What can you offer or recommend to your staff member when you face following situations? For each case study choose one of the options from the scroll-down menu.
Case Study 1
Sue has just got married and now informs you that she is pregnant. Her husband is studying at university and does not earn money so far. She is worrying about their income during the time she will not be able to work.
SCROLL DOWN MENU
CORRECT ANSWERS ARE MARKED IN GREEN
Home office
Sabbatical
Incentive
Occupational pension
Part-time job
Maternity leave
Maternity pay
Employee benefit
Employee assistance programme
Job-sharing
Case Study 2
John is aged 45 and has worked for 18 years for your graphic design office. He feels he has run out of creative ideas and would like to spend some time in another country in order to get fresh inspiration for his work.
SCROLL DOWN MENU
CORRECT ANSWERS ARE MARKED IN GREEN
Home office
Sabbatical
Incentive
Occupational pension
Part-time job
Maternity leave
Maternity pay
Employee benefit
Employee assistance programme
Job-sharing
Case Study 3
David is an accountant who works in the back office of your firm. His mother is 78 years old and will soon be obliged to have a hip surgery. Subsequently to the treatment at hospital she will not be able to live on her own. So David would like to take her to his apartment and care for her for a few weeks. He does not want to reduce his working time but needs another working time model.
SCROLL DOWN MENU
CORRECT ANSWERS ARE MARKED IN GREEN
Home office
Sabbatical
Incentive
Occupational pension
Part-time job
Maternity leave
Maternity pay
Employee benefit
Employee assistance programme
Job-sharing
Case Study 4
Philip has been your caretaker for more than 10 years. About 9 months ago Philip’s wife suddenly died. Today you went to his workroom where he usually does all the repair work. Under the work table you discovered a number of empty beer bottles and you had the impression that he might have drunken alcohol while working. You realize that was not the first time during the last few weeks.
SCROLL DOWN MENU
CORRECT ANSWERS ARE MARKED IN GREEN
Home office
Sabbatical
Incentive
Occupational pension
Part-time job
Maternity leave
Maternity pay
Employee benefit
Employee assistance programme
Job-sharing
Case Study 5
Your employee Julia is expecting a baby. Together with her husband she decided that she would take care of the baby as long as it is possible to be legally absent from work.
SCROLL DOWN MENU
CORRECT ANSWERS ARE MARKED IN GREEN
Home office
Sabbatical
Incentive
Occupational pension
Part-time job
Maternity leave
Maternity pay
Employee benefit
Employee assistance programme
Job-sharing
Case Study 6
A new law allows you to open your small bakery shop daily from 6.00 am to 10.00 pm. The two sales persons used to work as part-timers. However, now you can offer both of them a full time job. They are glad to increase their working hours and their salary but have to arrange how to share the working tasks.
SCROLL DOWN MENU
CORRECT ANSWERS ARE MARKED IN GREEN
Home office
Sabbatical
Incentive
Occupational pension
Part-time job
Maternity leave
Maternity pay
Employee benefit
Employee assistance programme
Job-sharing
Case Study 7
The young apprentice George told you during the interview that he would really appreciate working for you, however he has to use public transport for the 40 minutes travel to get to the workplace and back. His parents cannot afford the expenses and his salary as an apprentice will also not be high enough to cover the costs. You think about covering the costs for this, apart from his salary.
SCROLL DOWN MENU
CORRECT ANSWERS ARE MARKED IN GREEN
Home office
Sabbatical
Incentive
Occupational pension
Part-time job
Maternity leave
Maternity pay
Employee benefit
Employee assistance programme
Job-sharing
Case Study 8
The business year was very successful so that you intend to invite all of your staff to a nice near-by restaurant in order to celebrate the success. Your tax officer informs you that this can even be counted as part of your operating expenses for your company, however, you will have to respect certain cost ceilings and other legal requirements.
SCROLL DOWN MENU
CORRECT ANSWERS ARE MARKED IN GREEN
Home office
Sabbatical
Incentive
Occupational pension
Part-time job
Maternity leave
Maternity pay
Employee benefit
Employee assistance programme
Job-sharing
Case Study 9
Your employee Charlotte has been working full-time with your travel agency for more than 35 years. Now her husband retired and she would like to spend more time together with him. She is thinking about reducing her working hours.
SCROLL DOWN MENU
CORRECT ANSWERS ARE MARKED IN GREEN
Home office
Sabbatical
Incentive
Occupational pension
Part-time job
Maternity leave
Maternity pay
Employee benefit
Employee assistance programme
Job-sharing
Case Study 10
Your three staff members are worrying since the state pensions have been decreasing permanently. Of course you can understand their worries, however, you cannot increase their salaries in a way that would compensate this. Your tax advisor has suggested a different model that would help to increase their future income.
SCROLL DOWN MENU
CORRECT ANSWERS ARE MARKED IN GREEN
Home office
Sabbatical
Incentive
Occupational pension
Part-time job
Maternity leave
Maternity pay
Employee benefit
Employee assistance programme
Job-sharing
Activity 25 Estimated Time: 10 mins. Score: 8 points
Part 1
Read the examples of some practices. How would you react to them using Incentives or any other measures of improving the employer attractiveness?
Example 1
Your apprentice would like to learn more about the producer and the production methods of the regional organic vegetables you are selling to your clients.
Example 2
You are checking the sickness rates of your staff and find out that they have slightly increased within the last year in comparison to the previous years. You start to think how to react in this situation.
Example 3
Your family restaurant is located near the beach. So some of your staff members would like to go for a swim or a 30 minutes run before or after work. You think that this is a great idea in order to support their individual health programmes. So far there are no bathrooms with showers for staff members in your premises.
Example 4
You are the owner of clothing store and ask your staff to be properly dressed. Of course you appreciate when they wear the brand names you offer.
Example 5
Your cooking team has been doing really well recently and has been awarded the “Golden Spoon” in the category of SMEs. Instead of paying them a bonus you would prefer to organise an extraordinary event for them.
Example 6
Your secretary has moved and now it takes her 30 min longer in the morning to get from her home to the kindergarten of her daughter and from there to work.
Example 7
There is an important trade fair taking place in a major city about 150 kilometres from your place. The presentations are interesting in terms of the goods you are offering to your clients.
Example 8
For more than 2 years, Mani from India has been working with your company. During the annual interview you find out that he does not really know the rural area where he is now living because he cannot afford to buy a car.
STOP TO THINK
Think about at least 2 similar situations which you faced in the past. How did you react?
Part 2
Match the above example with the suggestion that is the most appropriate for it.
Matching activity
|Examples |Suggestions |
|Example 1: |You plan to close your shop for one day and take your staff to |
|Your apprentice would like to learn more about the producer and |the event where they will be able to receive information on |
|the production methods of the regional organic vegetables you |innovative products and new developments on the market. |
|are selling to your clients. | |
|Example 2: |You will change the work time model so that she will be able to |
|You are checking the sickness rates of your staff and find out |manage with this. Either she will work 30 minutes less per day |
|that they slightly increased within the last year in comparison |or she will start and finish 30 minutes later than before. |
|to the previous years. You start to think how to react in this | |
|situation. | |
|Example 3: |In order to inspire them with new ideas you will take them to a |
|Your family restaurant is located near the beach. So some of |Michelin star awarded restaurant in a city not far away from |
|your staff members would like to go for a swim or a 30 minutes |your location. If they like the idea they are invited to bring |
|run before or after work. You think that this is a great idea in|their partners with them. |
|order to support their individual health programmes. So far | |
|there are no bathrooms with showers for staff members in your | |
|premises. | |
|Example 4: |You plan and organise a study visit or work placement for 1-5 |
|You are the owner of clothing store and ask your staff to be |days with this supplier. You may consider that this is also |
|properly dressed. Of course you appreciate when they wear the |interesting for other staff members. |
|brand names you offer. | |
|Example 5: |You recommend certain sights that are worth visiting. During the|
|Your cooking team has been doing really well recently and has |weekends he will be allowed to take one of the company cars in |
|been awarded the “Golden Spoon” in the category of SMEs. Instead|order to visit these places. You hope that this measure will |
|of paying them a bonus you would prefer to organise an |also support his integration. |
|extraordinary event for them. | |
|Example 6: |Instead of a pay rise you offer them a discount of 50% on all |
|Your secretary has moved and now it takes her 30 min longer in |products sold in your store at any time. |
|the morning to get from her home to the kindergarten of her | |
|daughter and from there to work. | |
|Example 7: |You plan to address the topic in the annual interviews in order |
|There is an important trade fair taking place in a major city |to find out more about the reasons (hard physical work, working |
|about 150 kilometres from your place. The presentations are |conditions – time schedules, night work, age, etc.). You think |
|interesting in terms of the goods you are offering to your |about inventing paid health prevention programmes. |
|clients | |
|Example 8: |You will take this into consideration next year when you will be|
|For more than 2 years, Mani from India has been working with |doing some renovations in clients’ sanitary facilities. |
|your company. During the annual interview you find out that he | |
|does not really know the rural area where he is now living | |
|because he cannot afford to buy a car. | |
Correct Answers
|Examples |Suggestions |
|Example 1: |You plan and organise a study visit or work placement for 1-5 |
|Your apprentice would like to learn more about the producer and |days with this supplier. You may consider that this is also |
|the production methods of the regional organic vegetables you |interesting for other staff members. |
|are selling to your clients. | |
|Example 2: |You plan to address the topic in the annual interviews in order |
|You are checking the sickness rates of your staff and find out |to find out more about the reasons (hard physical work, working |
|that they have slightly increased within the last year in |conditions – time schedules, night work, age, etc.). You think |
|comparison to the years before. You start to think how to react |about inventing paid health prevention programmes. |
|in this situation. | |
|Example 3: |You will take this into consideration next year when you will be|
|Your family restaurant is located near the beach. So some of |doing some renovations in clients’ sanitary facilities. |
|your staff members would like to go for a swim or a 30 minutes | |
|run before or after work. You think that this is a great idea in| |
|order to support their individual health programmes. So far | |
|there are no bathrooms with showers for staff members in your | |
|premises. | |
|Example 4: |Instead of a pay rise you offer them a discount of 50% on all |
|You are the owner of clothing store and ask your staff to be |products sold in your store at any time. |
|properly dressed. Of course you appreciate when they wear the | |
|brand names you offer. | |
|Example 5: |In order to inspire them with new ideas you will take them to a |
|Your cooking team has been doing really well recently and has |Michelin star awarded restaurant in a city not far away from |
|been awarded the “Golden Spoon” in the category of SMEs. Instead|your location. If they like the idea they are invited to bring |
|of paying them a bonus you would prefer to organise an |their partners with them. |
|extraordinary event for them. | |
|Example 6: |You will change the work time model so that she will be able to |
|Your secretary has moved and now it takes her 30 min longer in |manage with this. Either she will work 30 minutes less per day |
|the morning to get from her home to the kindergarten of her |or she will start and finish 30 minutes later than before. |
|daughter and from there to work. | |
|Example 7: |You plan to close your shop for one day and take your staff to |
|There is an important trade fair taking place in a major city |the event where they will be able to receive information on |
|about 150 kilometres from your place. The presentations are |innovative products and new developments on the market. |
|interesting in terms of the goods you are offering to your | |
|clients. | |
|Example 8: |You recommend certain sights that are worth visiting. During the|
|For more than 2 years, Mani from India has been working with |weekends he will be allowed to take one of the company cars in |
|your company. During the annual interview you find out that he |order to visit these places. You hope that this measure will |
|does not really know the rural area where he is now living |also support his integration. |
|because he cannot afford to buy a car. | |
Revision B2
The points scored for Revision section are calculated separately.
Activity 26 Estimated Time: 20 mins. Score: 20 points
Choose the correct answer A, B or C.
Self-check exercise which gives the number of points scored at the end.
Single choice, the correct answers are marked in green.
1. Which of these practices relates to Fair Operating Practices?
A. managing available natural and energy resources efficiently
B. working to provide high quality and safe products as well as services
C. supporting fair and sustainable partnerships with business partners
2. Which of these practices does NOT relate to Fair Operating Practices?
A. offering innovative working time models
B. prioritizing the customer's perspective
C. working with products without child labour
3. Fair Operating Practices in terms of CSR should be ________________ activities.
A. permanent
B. biannual
C. temporary
4. Education and Training may include ________________.
A. offering annual training opportunities for all staff members
B. hiring staff with handicap
C. providing job offers to migrants
5. Which practice will respond to employees’ needs for innovative working time models?
A. training excursion
B. annual summer party
C. flexible working hours for parents
6. Which practice will NOT respond to employees’ needs for innovative working time models?
A. sabbatical
B. staff discount for products
C. home office
7. Companies ________________.
A. should ignore training needs of their staff
B. shouldn’t pay different wages for equal work
C. should do without annual staff interviews
8. Companies should ________________.
A. offer health programmes or staff fitness rooms
B. ignore the causes of any increase of sickness rate
C. ask their staff to pay for safety clothing
9. Which is the correct order?
A. gather information about appropriate trainings, lay down the individual development objectives, do an annual staff interview
B. lay down the individual development objectives, gather information about appropriate trainings, do an annual staff interview
C. do an annual staff interview, lay down the individual development objectives, gather information about appropriate trainings
10. Choose the correct description of the term Gender Gap.
A. Treating a person or particular group of people differently, especially in a worse way from the way in which you treat other people, because of their skin colour, sex, sexuality, etc.
B. A difference between the way men and women are treated in society, or between what men and women do and achieve.
C. Behaviour that annoys or upsets someone.
11. Choose the correct description of the term Work-life balance.
A. The amount of time you spend doing your job compared with the amount of time you spend with your family and doing things you enjoy.
B. The right of different groups of people to have a similar social position and receive the same treatment.
C. The fact of many different types of things or people being included in something; a range of different things or people.
12. Which of these practices is related to Labour and Social Standards?
A. in any case taking the cheapest supplier offer
B. providing written contracts to employees
C. having a company website
13. Which of these practices is NOT related to Labour and Social Standards?
A. checking the working conditions at suppliers
B. respecting basic health protection for staff
C. providing incentives
14. Designing and conducting a staff questionnaire ________________.
A. is an easy but time consuming and expensive initiative
B. should include several sections like working contents, working conditions, working time, etc.
C. is an unnecessary procedure which does not help the company at all
15. Which could be business success factors in terms of CSR involvement?
A. higher costs
B. unmotivated staff
C. reputation
16. Which of the following does NOT belong to Fair Pay and Other Benefits for Staff?
A. establishing a worker’s council
B. providing a responsive website
C. paying women and men equally for the same work
17. Which of the following discrimination types is unlikely to be a matter between employee and employer?
A. discrimination against couch potatoes
B. discrimination against political opinions
C. discrimination against disability
18. What is the definition of the term Job-Sharing?
A. A person who works for only part of a day or week.
B. A period in which a woman is legally allowed to be absent from work in the weeks before and after she gives birth.
C. The practice of dividing the duties and the pay of one job between two people who work at different times during the day or week.
19. What is the definition of the term Employee Assistance Programme?
A. Help that a company offers employees with personal problems that might affect their work.
B. Money that a woman is paid during the time she is legally allowed to be absent from work in the weeks before and after she gives birth to a baby.
C. An advantage such as a pension plan, health insurance, or a car, that a company offers to employees in addition to their pay.
20. Which kind of staff training could be prescribed by law depending on the work sector?
A. English language skills
B. HACCP Training (“Hazard analysis and critical control points” in order to avoid biological, chemical, and physical hazards in food production processes)
C. Word processing
Activity 27 Estimated Time: 10 mins. Score: 10 points
Read the case studies. Choose the answer that fits best CSR principles.
1. You run a small company producing roof constructions. You see that your new staff member is wearing sneakers at work.
What do you do?
A. You do not care about it at all. (0 points)
B. You lend him your health protection shoes. (1 point)
C. You provide him with new health protection shoes. (2 points)
2. You are selling fashionable T-shirts in your small shop. One evening you watch a TV documentary and realize that your supplier employs children.
What do you do?
A. I do not care, I’ve been working like that for 10 years and the clients loved the products. (0 points)
B. I will check with my supplier first and consult an expert. I will not sell any of these T-shirts until I am sure that they are not produced by children. (2 points)
C. I have to check with my supplier to find out what it is all about. I can stop ordering these T-shirts when I have sold the remaining stock. (1 point)
3. You run a restaurant and realize that your long-term supplier has sent you 500 bottles of French red wine but on the invoice charges you only 50 bottles. What do you do?
A. I give them a call right now and ask them whether the invoice is correct, as soon as the issue has been solved I will pay the invoice. (2 points)
B. I wait until the final day mentioned in the payment terms and then pay the invoice. (0 points)
C. I wait until the final day mentioned in the payment terms and then give them a call about the issue that the invoice might not be correct. (1 point)
4. You realize that the person being responsible for ordering materials in your small carpenter company is struggling with using the computer.
What do you do?
A. I do not do anything. In previous years everything went well when we were ordering by phone or fax. (0 points)
B. I offer my assistance for the orders placed online. (1 point)
C. I have an annual interview with the person, setting out the learning needs and the company will pay for a tailor-made computer course. (2 points)
5. You run a small flower shop and you are asked whether you would be interested to take part in the Boys’ Day initiative which provides one-day internships for boys in professions with high rates of female workers.
What do you do?
A. I am not interested in this at all since I am sure that boys lack the ability to create nice bouquets of flowers. (0 points)
B. I am open to this initiative and will welcome one of the interested boys in March. (2 points)
C. I am not convinced that boys would do a good job with flowers, however I will participate and foresee some special activities for boys like carrying heavy flowerpots and bags of potting soil. (1 points)
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