hrM Ch.10 & 11

72) Smith Industries has established a career development program for its employees that offers career coaching and workshops. However, a recent employee survey indicates that many women still feel dissatisfied about their career opportunities at the firm. Which of the following would most likely improve the attitudes of female employees at Smith Industries? A) Smith installs an electronic performance support system for telecommuters. B) Smith provides hardship allowances to all minority employees. C) Smith increases the number of performance appraisals. D) Smith implements a flexible career track system.

Answer: D Explanation: D) Inflexible promotional ladders can put women—who often have more responsibility for child-raising chores—at a disadvantage. One solution is to institute flexible career tracks that enable women to periodically reduce their time at work, but remain on a partner track. Although performance appraisals can be used to discuss career needs, merely increasing the number of appraisals will not likely improve the attitudes of women.

82) All of the following are characteristic of a formal promotion process EXCEPT ________. A) open positions are posted B) promotion criteria are made available C) job postings are circulated to all employees D) promotions are based on unpublished requirements

Answer: D Explanation: D) Informal promotion processes are based on unpublished criteria. With formal promotion processes, employers set formal, published promotion policies and procedures, and employees receive a formal promotion policy describing the criteria by which the firm awards promotions. A job posting policy states the firm will post open positions and their requirements and circulate these to all employees.

103) Willful disregard or disobedience of the boss's authority or legitimate orders is known as ________. A) dismissal B) terminate at will C) reality shock D) insubordination

Answer: D Explanation: D) Insubordination is willful disregard or disobedience of the boss's authority or legitimate orders or criticizing the boss in public.

100) Pablo Industries needs to send home a number of workers due to lack of work, although it expects they will return at a future time. This is an example of a: A) transfer B) downsizing C) promotion D) layoff

Answer: D Explanation: D) Layoffs are when the employer sends workers home for a time for lack of work and is usually not a permanent dismissal (although it may turn out to be). Rather, it is a temporary one, which the employer expects will be short term.

30) Reality shock can most likely be prevented by providing new employees with ________. A) flexible schedules B) performance appraisals C) reassignments D) accurate job previews

Answer: D Explanation: D) Realistic job previews, challenging first jobs, and an experienced mentor to help the new employee learn the ropes are important methods for avoiding reality shock.

6) Which of the following was enacted in 1931 for the purpose of setting wage rates for laborers and mechanics employed by contractors working for the federal government? A) Walsh-Healey Public Contract B) Fair Labor Standards Act C) Civil Rights Act D) Davis-Bacon Act

Answer: D Explanation: D) The 1931 Davis-Bacon Act allows the secretary of labor to set wage rates for laborers and mechanics employed by contractors working for the federal government. Amendments provide for paid employee benefits.

18) Which of the following states that employees of one sex may not be paid wages at a rate lower than that paid to employees of the opposite sex for doing roughly equivalent work? A) Americans with Disabilities Act B) Title VII of the Civil Rights Act C) Social Security Act D) Equal Pay Act

Answer: D Explanation: D) The Equal Pay Act, an amendment to the Fair Labor Standards Act, states that employees of one sex may not be paid wages at a rate lower than that paid to employees of the opposite sex for doing roughly equivalent work.

9) Which of the following issues is NOT addressed by the Fair Labor Standards Act? A) record-keeping B) overtime pay C) child labor D) termination

Answer: D Explanation: D) The Fair Labor Standards Act, originally passed in 1938 and since amended many times, contains minimum wage, maximum hours, overtime pay, equal pay, record-keeping, and child labor provisions that are familiar to most working people. The termination of an employee is not addressed by the FLSA.

23) Which of the following gives employees the right to organize, bargain collectively, and engage in concerted activities for the purpose of collective bargaining? A) Equal Pay Act B) Civil Rights Act C) Fair Labor Standards Act D) National Labor Relations Act

Answer: D Explanation: D) The National Labor Relations Act of 1935 (Wagner Act) and related legislation and court decisions legitimized the labor movement. It gave unions legal protection, and granted employees the right to unionize, to bargain collectively, and to engage in concerted activities for the purpose of collective bargaining or other mutual aid or protection.

63) According to research cited in the text, what is the primary reason that top-performing/high commitment employees gave for voluntarily leaving an organization? A) career development B) work-life balance C) promotions D) salary

Answer: D Explanation: D) The five top reasons high commitment/top-performing employees gave for leaving (ranked from high to low) were pay, promotional opportunities, work-life balance, career development, and health-care benefits.

2) What is defined as the occupational positions a person holds over the years? A) a psychological contract B) a promotion C) reality shock D) a career

Answer: D) a career Explanation: D) A career is the occupational positions a person holds over the years.

14) Employers benefit from offering career development programs to employees in all of the following ways EXCEPT ________. A) supporting recruitment efforts B) boosting employee commitment C) enhancing employee strengths D) facilitating performance analysis

Answer: D) facilitating performance analysis Explanation: D) Performance analysis refers to verifying and correcting an employee's performance deficiency, but it is not a benefit of career development programs. Firms that offer career development programs boost employee commitment, support recruitment and retention efforts, and equip employees with useful skills.

6) Which of the following is NOT supported by research as to what supervisors can do to be better mentors? A) set high standards B) invest the time and effort the mentoring relationship requires C) steer protégés into important projects D) focus on controlling the mentor

Answer: D) focus on controlling the mentor Explanation: D) Research suggests that mentors need to actually share control with the mentees.

28) What do firms use to coordinate career planning efforts, succession plans, and employees' career interests? A) outplacement counseling B) coaching C) reality shock D) integrated talent management software

Answer: D) integrated talent management software Explanation: D) Integrated talent management software helps to achieve coordination between succession plans and employee career interests.

4) The process of advising, counseling, and guiding employees is known as ________. A) coaching B) appraising C) assessing D) mentoring

Answer: D) mentoring. Explanation: D) Mentoring means having experienced senior people advising, counseling, and guiding employees' longer-term career development.

19) Which of the following is primarily the role of the manager in an employee's career development? A) providing career information B) seeking development opportunities C) providing academic assistance programs D) providing accurate performance feedback

Answer: D) providing accurate performance feedback Explanation: D) It is the role of the manager to provide timely and accurate performance feedback to subordinates. Employees are responsible for seeking development opportunities. Employers should provide career information and academic assistance when appropriate.

28) Which of the following is the LEAST likely way that an employer would address a cost-of-living differential? A) paying a nonrecurring amount spread over one to three years B) paying a nonrecurring, lump sum amount C) raising an employee's base salary D) raising commission percentages

Answer: D) raising commission percentages Explanation: D) Employers handle cost-of-living differentials in several ways. One is to give the transferred person a nonrecurring payment, usually in a lump sum or perhaps spread over one to three years. Others pay a differential for ongoing costs in addition to a one-time allocation or simply raise the employee's base salary.

71) Chelsea Bank employs a diverse group of employees, and the firm wants all of its workers to have equal career advancement opportunities. Which of the following most likely undermines Chelsea Bank's attempt to meet the career development needs of its diverse workforce? A) scheduling meetings in the early morning or late evening B) offering career advancement seminars for women and minorities C) identifying mentors for women and minorities D) adopting flexible year-round work schedules

Answer: A Explanation: A) Early morning or late evening meetings can be stressful for employees with children because of childcare issues. Career advancement seminars, mentors, and flexible schedules are all effective methods for meeting the various career development needs of a diverse workforce.

51) Which of the following statements most likely suggests that an employee is engaged? A) "I work with intensity." B) "I take frequent breaks." C) "I daydream at my desk." D) "I enjoy talking to co-workers."

Answer: A Explanation: A) Engaged employees are focused and work with intensity at their jobs. Disengaged workers take unnecessary breaks, daydream, and make idle conversation with coworkers.

14) Which of the following is true for employers who use independent contractors? A) Fair Labor Standards Act overtime requirements do not apply. B) Social Security taxes are higher than for regular employees. C) Federal income taxes are charged at a reduced rate. D) Payroll taxes are paid by the employer.

Answer: A Explanation: A) For employers, there are advantages to claiming that someone is an independent contractor. For one thing, the FLSA's overtime and most other requirements do not apply. For another, the employer does not have to pay unemployment compensation payroll taxes, Social Security taxes, or city, state, and federal income taxes or compulsory workers' compensation for that worker.

24) What has historically been the key issue in collective bargaining? A) wage rates B) income security C) health care benefits D) cost-of-living adjustments

Answer: A Explanation: A) Historically, the wage rate has been the main issue in collective bargaining. However, unions also negotiate other pay-related issues, including time off with pay, income security, cost-of-living adjustments, and health care benefits.

65) Apex Carpet has a very high voluntary turnover rate, which executives at the firm want reduced. Which of the following should Apex most likely do first in its attempt to retain topperforming employees? A) administer attitude surveys to all employees B) provide an across-the-board wage increase C) evaluate the firm's promotion methods D) develop online training courses

Answer: A Explanation: A) Identifying the issues is an important first retention strategy. Many employers routinely administer attitude surveys to monitor employees' feelings about matters such as supervision and pay. Salary, promotions, and training may not necessarily be the reasons for high turnover.

4) John is a sales representative in a jewelry store. He typically works 40 hours per week and his pay is completely based on his sales. He earns a 5% commission for every sale he makes. Which of the following terms best describes John's situation? A) pay for performance B) indirect financial compensation C) time-based compensation D) piecework pay

Answer: A Explanation: A) John earns sales commissions, which means he receives pay for performance. Piecework ties compensation to the number of pieces a worker produces, and John is selling rather than making jewelry.

30) Which of the following is NOT one of the forms of equity related to compensation issues? A) group B) external C) individual D) procedural

Answer: A Explanation: A) Managers address external, internal, individual, and procedural equity when considering compensation issues.

76) ABC Consulting has a formal mentoring program in which senior-level managers are paired with less-experienced employees. Which of the following employees most likely needs a mentor? A) Raj, who is uncertain how to navigate office politics B) Jason, who does not perform tasks as quickly as required C) Michele, who is experiencing personal problems at home D) Haley, who is working and attending graduate school simultaneously

Answer: A Explanation: A) Mentoring traditionally means having experienced senior people advising, counseling, and guiding employees' longer-term career development. An employee who agonizes over which career to pursue or how to navigate office politics might need mentoring. Jason would benefit from coaching rather than mentoring, and Haley already has a career plan. Mentors should not discuss personal problems.

81) Which of the following is the simplest and most often used method for predicting the future performance of a candidate for promotion? A) prior performance B) aptitude tests C) assessment centers D) psychological exams

Answer: A Explanation: A) Most employers use prior performance as a guide, and assume that (based on exemplary prior performance) the person will do well on the new job. This is the simplest method. Many others use tests or assessment centers to evaluate promotable employees and to identify those with executive potential.

102) When an employer arranges for an outside firm to provide terminated employees with career planning and job search skills it is called: A) outplacement counseling B) a layoff C) a transfer D) career management

Answer: A Explanation: A) Outplacement counseling is when the employer arranges for an outside firm to provide terminated employees with career planning and job search skills.

66) Retaining employees is a ________ issue and the best retention strategies are therefore multifunctional. A) talent management B) career management C) strategic management D) human resources management

Answer: A Explanation: A) Retaining employees is a talent management issue, and the best retention strategies are therefore multifunctional. Turnovers (both voluntary and involuntary) often start with poor selection decisions, compounded by inadequate training, insensitive appraisals, and inequitable pay.

86) Why are an increasing number of firms focusing on retirement planning? A) concerns about future labor shortages B) surveys of current employee attitudes C) modifications to the promotion process D) increases in health insurance premiums

Answer: A Explanation: A) Retirement planning is a significant long-term issue for employers. In the United States, the number of 25- to 34-year-olds is growing relatively slowly, and the number of 35- to 44-year olds is declining. So, with many employees in their 50s and 60s moving toward traditional retirement age, employers face a longer-term labor shortage.

87) All of the following are true statements about retirement EXCEPT ________. A) most employees who plan to work after 65 must do so for financial reasons B) most employees expect to continue working after normal retirement age C) most employees who plan to work after 65 want a part-time position D) many retirement age workers want to stay active through working

Answer: A Explanation: A) Seventy eight percent of employees in one survey said they expect to continue working in some capacity after normal retirement age (64% said they want to do so part-time). Only about a third said they plan to continue work for financial reasons; about 43% said they just wanted to remain active.

22) All of the following are types of career development initiatives implemented by employers EXCEPT ________. A) 401(k) plans B) career coaches C) appraisal committees D) mentoring

Answer: A Explanation: A) Several employers provide 401(k)-type lifelong learning accounts for their employees to use for career-related education, but 401(k) plans are not oriented towards career development.

56) Which of the following industries has one of the highest turnover rates, at around 100% per year? A) food services B) financial services C) healthcare services D) educational services

Answer: A Explanation: A) The turnover in many food service organizations is around 100% per year. In contrast, voluntary turnover in the educational services industry is about 12%.

79) Competence rather than seniority is most likely the basis for promotion when ________. A) corporate competitiveness is necessary B) union agreements are involved C) civil service regulations apply D) compensation packages are limited

Answer: A Explanation: A) Today's focus on competitiveness favors competency. However, union agreements sometimes contain clauses that emphasize seniority, and civil service regulations that stress seniority rather than competency often govern promotions in many public-sector organizations.

78) Which of the following terms refers to reassignments to similar positions in other parts of a firm? A) transfers B) layoffs C) dismissals D) promotions

Answer: A Explanation: A) Transfers are reassignments to similar positions within a firm.

50) With a(n) ________, a supervisor and employee jointly merge the employee's past performance, career preferences, and developmental needs into a formal career plan. A) career-oriented appraisal B) exit interview C) promotion D) employee qualification databank

Answer: A Explanation: A) With career-oriented appraisals, the supervisor and employee jointly merge the latter's past performance, career preferences, and developmental needs into a formal career plan.

74) While women constitute more than 40% of the workforce, they hold only about ________ of top management positions. A) 2% B) 13% C) 25% D) 30%

Answer: A Explanation: A) Women still don't reach the top of the career ladder in numbers proportionate to their numbers in U.S. industry. Women constitute more than 40% of the workforce, but hold less than 2% of top management positions.

9) ________ is a process for enabling employees to better understand and develop their career skills and interests and to use these skills and interests most effectively within the company and afterwards. A) Career management B) Career development C) Career planning D) Performance management

Answer: A) Career management Explanation: A) Career management is a process for enabling employees to better understand and develop their career skills and interests and to use these skills and interests most effectively within the company and after they leave the firm. Specific career management activities might include providing realistic career oriented appraisals, posting open jobs, and offering formal career development activities.

5) ________ focuses on helping an employee make long-term career plans, while ________ addresses an employee's short-term job skills. A) Mentoring; coaching B) Coaching; mentoring C) Recruiting; coaching D) Appraising; training

Answer: A) Mentoring; coaching Explanation: A) Mentoring means advising, counseling, and guiding an employee towards longterm career goals. Coaching means educating, instructing, and training subordinates in performing short-term job-related skills.

12) Jill works as a cashier at a grocery store. She earns $10 an hour (or $400 for a 40-hour week). Last week, she worked 46 hours. What is the minimum amount that Jill earned last week? A) $460 B) $490 C) $520 D) $550

Answer: B Explanation: B) The FLSA says employers must pay overtime at a rate of at least one-and-a-half times normal pay for any hours worked over 40 in a workweek. Jill worked 46 hours in one week, so she was paid for 6 of those hours at a rate equal to one-and-a-half times the hourly rate of $10. The 6 overtime hours were at a rate of $15, so Jill earned at least $490.

83) Tanya accused a male superior of sexual harassment. Later, Tanya was turned down for a promotion because the accused superior persuaded Tanya's current supervisor not to promote Tanya. This is most likely an example of ________. A) demotion B) retaliation C) dissonance D) defensive behavior

Answer: B Explanation: B) The U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals case allowed a claim of retaliation to proceed when a female employee provided evidence that her employer turned her down for promotion because a supervisor she had previously accused of sexual harassment made comments that persuaded her current supervisor not to promote her.

104) Dwight has just been in an interview in which he was informed of the fact that he had been dismissed. This is called a(n): A) exit interview B) termination interview C) outplacement interview D) reality shock interview

Answer: B Explanation: B) The exit interview in which an employee is informed of the fact that he or she has been dismissed.

10) Which law makes it illegal to discriminate against any individual with respect to compensation because of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin? A) Fair Labor Standards Act B) Title VII of the Civil Rights Act C) Equal Pay Act D) Taft-Hartley Act

Answer: B Explanation: B) Title VII makes it unlawful for employers to discriminate against any individual with respect to hiring, compensation, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment because of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

10) Which of the following terms refers to the lifelong series of activities that contribute to a person's career exploration, establishment, success, and fulfillment? A) performance management B) career development C) career management D) career planning

Answer: B) Career development Explanation: B) Career development is the lifelong series of activities that contribute to a person's career exploration, establishment, success, and fulfillment.

1) Which of the following terms refers to educating, instructing, and training subordinates, usually related to daily tasks? A) mentoring B) coaching C) appraising D) grading

Answer: B) Coaching Explanation: B) Coaching means educating, instructing, and training subordinates. Coaching focuses on teaching daily tasks that you can easily relearn.

15) Dick's Sporting Goods is a sports and fitness retailer with over 300 stores in 34 states. After beginning as a small bait and tackle shop in 1948, Dick's has grown to become a leader in the sports and fitness retail industry. Many career opportunities are available in Dick's in areas as diverse as IT, product development, merchandising, and store management. Top management at Dick's realizes the importance of hiring and retaining quality employees. As a result, the firm has decided to implement policies, practices, and programs that support employees' career needs. Which of the following, if true, would best support the argument that Dick's should add a career development aspect to its human resource activities? A) Dick's Sporting Goods' current policies and practices categorize the firm as a highperformance work system. B) Dick's Sporting Goods' performance appraisals will include development plans and individual goal setting. C) Dick's Sporting Goods' sales volume and hourly employee needs typically fluctuate throughout the year. D) Dick's Sporting Goods' will screen potential candidates using structured situational interviews.

Answer: B) Dick's Sporting Goods' performance appraisals will include development plans and individual goal setting. Explanation: B) Performance appraisals with a traditional focus include ratings and rewards, but firms that have a career development focus add development plans and individual goal setting. Such additions can better equip employees and support their career development needs more effectively than traditional appraisals. Career development is the lifelong series of activities that contribute to a person's career exploration, establishment, success, and fulfillment.

29) What theory of motivation states that people are strongly motivated to maintain a balance between what they perceive as their contributions and their rewards? A) Two-factor theory B) Equity theory C) Learned needs theory D) Expectancy theory

Answer: B) Equity theory Explanation: B) The equity theory of motivation postulates that people are strongly motivated to maintain a balance between what they perceive as their inputs or contributions, and their rewards. Equity theory states that if a person perceives an inequity, a tension or drive will develop in the person's mind, and the person will be motivated to reduce or eliminate the tension and perceived inequity.

11) According to the Fair Labor Standards Act, what rate of normal pay would a covered employee receive for working more than 40 hours in a workweek? A) 50% B) 100% C) 150% D) 200%

Answer: C Explanation: C) A provision in the FLSA governs overtime pay. It says employers must pay overtime at a rate of at least one-and-a-half times normal pay for any hours worked over 40 in a workweek.

13) Joseph worked 6 hours of overtime this week but has decided to take time off instead of overtime pay. How many hours will Joseph receive in time off from work? A) 3 hours B) 6 hours C) 9 hours D) 18 hours

Answer: C Explanation: C) According to the FLSA, if an employee receives time off for overtime hours instead of money, the employer must compute the number of hours granted off at the one-and-a-half times rate. Jack would get 9 hours off for the 6 hours of overtime.

25) All of the following are characteristics of effective mentors EXCEPT ________. A) developing a trustworthy relationship B) guiding protégés into important projects C) focusing on the protégé's daily tasks D) setting high standards for protégés

Answer: C Explanation: C) Coaching, not mentoring, focuses on daily tasks. Effective mentors set high standards, are willing to invest the time and effort the mentoring relationship requires, and actively steer protégés into important projects, teams, and jobs. Effective mentoring requires trust, and the level of trust reflects the mentor's professional competency, consistency, ability to communicate, and readiness to share control.

84) According to the court system, promotions based on subjective assessments ________. A) support employers in adverse impact claims B) violate the Americans with Disabilities Act C) must be supported by objective evidence D) are valid under the Civil Rights Act of 1991

Answer: C Explanation: C) Courts have indicated that while subjective reasons can justify "adverse employment decisions, an employer must articulate any clear and reasonably specific factual bases upon which it based its decision." In other words, you should be able to provide objective evidence supporting your subjective assessment for promotion.

Which of the following terms refers to the ownership employees build up in their pension plans should their employment with a firm end prior to retirement? A) portability B) equity C) vesting D) shares

Answer: C Explanation: C) ERISA sets regulations regarding vesting rights. Vesting refers to the equity or ownership the employees build up in their pension plans should their employment terminate before retirement.

3) Which of the following terms refers to pay in the form of financial benefits, such as insurance? A) direct financial payments B) out-of-pocket expenses C) indirect financial payments D) sales commissions

Answer: C Explanation: C) Employee compensation has two main components: direct financial payments (wages, salaries, incentives, commissions, and bonuses) and indirect financial payments (financial benefits like employer-paid insurance and vacations).

101) Roberto is leaving Smith Industries and before he actually leaves the company wants to do a meeting where they elicit information aimed at giving the employer insights into the company. This is known as a(n): A) layoff B) transfer C) exit interview D) termination interview

Answer: C Explanation: C) Exit interviews are interviews, usually conducted by a human resource professional just prior to the employee leaving, that elicit information aimed at giving employers insights into their companies.

88) All of the following methods are used by firms to recruit and retain retirement-age workers EXCEPT ________. A) implementing phased retirement programs B) offering them flexible work arrangements C) using psychometric selection tests D) offering them part-time positions

Answer: C Explanation: C) Firms trying to recruit or retain older workers are using techniques such as creating a culture that honors experience, offering them part-time positions, hiring them as consultants or temporary workers, offering them flexible work arrangements, encouraging them to work past traditional retirement age, providing training to upgrade skills, and instituting a phased retirement program.

70) Miranda wants to make partner at her law firm. However, she is worried because 70-hour work weeks are the norm for someone striving to make partner. Miranda wants to be fair to her family as well as excel at work. The best way for the law firm to address this problem is by ________. A) providing Miranda with a female career coach B) persuading Miranda to temporarily work in a less competitive law firm C) offering a flexible career track that allows Miranda to periodically reduce her work load D) providing a career planning workshop to help Miranda determine a more appropriate occupation

Answer: C Explanation: C) Inflexible promotional ladders can put women—who often have more responsibility for child-raising chores—at a disadvantage. One solution is to institute career tracks (including reduced hours and more flexible year-round work schedules) that enable women to periodically reduce their time at work, but remain on a partner track. Career coaches and career planning workshops are more appropriate for people who are not sure about the direction of their careers, which is not Miranda's problem.

73) Which of the following best explains the meaning of the term "glass ceiling"? A) formal corporate policies that prevent women from receiving the training needed to advance their careers B) spoken opinions by corporate leaders that women lack the knowledge and skills required for career advancement C) structural yet subtle barriers in corporate environments that inhibit the rise of talented women to leadership positions D) inadequate educational opportunities which ultimately limit the network opportunities available to women in the workforce

Answer: C Explanation: C) Many refer to the subtle and not-so-subtle barriers to women's career progress as the glass ceiling. Several types of career development programs—fast-track programs, individual career counseling, and career planning workshops—are less available to women than to men.

80) What can diminish positive feelings toward the promotion process? A) rewards B) responsibilities C) secrecy D) job descriptions

Answer: C Explanation: C) Most people crave promotion, which usually means more pay, responsibility, and (often) job satisfaction. Yet the promotion process isn't always a positive experience. Unfairness or secrecy can diminish the process.

16) Which of the following jobs is most likely categorized as nonexempt from the overtime pay provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act? A) taxicab driver B) personnel director C) newspaper writer D) computer systems analyst

Answer: C Explanation: C) Newspaper writers are usually considered nonexempt, so they may earn overtime pay. Scientists, cab drivers, personnel directors, and computer systems analysts are typically exempt employees who are not eligible for overtime pay.

77) Which of the following terms refers to advancements to positions of increased responsibility? A) transfers B) appraisals C) promotions D) recruitments

Answer: C Explanation: C) Promotions traditionally refer to advancements to positions of increased responsibility. Transfers are reassignments to similar positions within a firm.

62) What is a crucial first step in retaining employees over time? A) providing employees with proper training B) discussing career plans with workers C) selecting the right workers D) identifying worker goals

Answer: C Explanation: C) Retention starts up front, in the selection and hiring of the right employees. Selection refers not just to the worker but to choosing the right supervisors as well.

15) In most cases, which of the following occupations is NOT exempt from the overtime provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act? A) physicians B) engineers C) paralegals D) teachers

Answer: C Explanation: C) Teachers, doctors, engineers, and architects are typically exempt from the FLSA overtime provisions. Paralegals are considered nonexempt.

19) Which act regulates vesting rights and portability rights? A) Fair Labor Standards Act B) Title VII of the Civil Rights Act C) Employer Retirement Income Security Act D) Equal Pay Act of 1963

Answer: C Explanation: C) The Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) provided for the creation of government-run, employer-financed corporations to protect employees against the failure of their employers' pension plans. In addition, it sets regulations regarding vesting rights and regulates portability rights (the transfer of an employee's vested rights from one organization to another).

8) Which compensation-related law contains provisions for minimum wage, maximum hours, overtime pay, equal pay, record-keeping, and child labor? A) Davis-Bacon Act B) Fair Wages Act C) Fair Labor Standards Act D) Walsh-Healey Public Contract

Answer: C Explanation: C) The Fair Labor Standards Act, originally passed in 1938 and since amended many times, contains minimum wage, maximum hours, overtime pay, equal pay, record-keeping, and child labor provisions that are familiar to most working people. It covers the majority of U.S. workers—virtually all those engaged in the production and/or sale of goods for interstate and foreign commerce.

22) Bonnie, a data analyst, needs to take time off from work to care for her elderly mother. According to the Family and Medical Leave Act, what is the maximum number of weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave that Bonnie may take? A) 4 B) 6 C) 12 D) 16

Answer: C Explanation: C) The Family and Medical Leave Act aims to entitle eligible employees, both men and women, to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job protected leave for the birth of a child or for the care of a child, spouse, or parent.

24) Which of the following would most likely increase employee commitment? A) document the psychological contract B) create Web-based efficiency programs C) establish a career development program D) promise lifetime employment to managers

Answer: C Explanation: C) The employer's career development efforts, taken as a whole, should send the signal that the employer cares about the employee's career success, and thus deserves the employee's commitment.

5) Which of the following factors has the LEAST effect on the design of an organization's pay plan? A) legal B) union C) company vision D) company policy

Answer: C Explanation: C) The factors that determine the design of any pay plan include legal, union, company strategy and policy, and equity. A firm's vision indicates what the firm wants to become in the future, and it has less of an impact on pay plan design than the other factors.

54) The rate at which employees leave a firm is best known as ________. A) downsizing B) retirement C) turnover D) retention

Answer: C Explanation: C) Turnover is the rate that workers leave an employer. Turnover occurs for many reasons and it is costly.

8) Which of the following is the main difference between coaching and mentoring? A) Coaching focuses on work-related behaviors. B) Mentoring focuses on teamwork related skills. C) Coaching focuses on teaching daily tasks. D) Mentoring is more effective for women.

Answer: C) Coaching focuses on teaching daily tasks. Explanation: C) Mentoring focuses on employees' longer-term career development while coaching focuses on teaching daily tasks that a worker can easily relearn.

26) Which of the following terms refers to a compensation plan that advances a firm's strategic goals? A) strategic management B) performance pay plan C) aligned reward strategy D) workers' compensation package

Answer: C) aligned reward strategy Explanation: C) The compensation plan should advance the firm's strategic aims, so management should produce an aligned reward strategy. This means creating a bundle of rewards—a total reward package including wages, incentives, and benefits—that aims to produce the employee behaviors the firm needs to support and achieve its competitive strategy.

13) Jackie is working with a coach to identify her personal skills and interests. Afterwards, she will investigate opportunities that fit her skills and interests and set specific career goals. In which of the following activities is Jackie most likely participating? A) career management B) career development C) career planning D) job training

Answer: C) career planning Explanation: C) Career planning is the deliberate process through which someone becomes aware of his or her personal skills, interests, knowledge, motivations, and other characteristics and establishes action plans to attain specific goals.

64) Apex Carpet has a very high voluntary turnover rate, which executives at the firm want reduced. What is the most effective way to retain top-performing employees at Apex? A) conducting more performance reviews B) developing new recruitment strategies C) establishing a talent management program D) revising the organization's mission statement

Answer: C) establishing a talent management program Explanation: C) Employers can address turnover issues by instituting effective and comprehensive talent management (recruitment, selection, training, appraisal, and compensation) practices. The manager should understand that retaining employees is a talent management issue, and that the best retention strategies are therefore multifunctional.

59) A(n) ________ describes the criteria by which the firm awards promotions. A) job posting policy B) employee qualification databank C) formal promotion policy D) 9-box plot

Answer: C) formal promotion policy Explanation: C) The formal promotion policy describes the criteria by which the firm awards promotions.

58) Which term refers to actions intended to place physical or psychological distance between employees and their work environments? A) employee disengagement B) workplace separation C) job withdrawal D) attrition

Answer: C) job withdrawal Explanation: C) Job withdrawal has been defined as "actions intended to place physical or psychological distance between employees and their work environments." Poor attendance and voluntary turnover are two job withdrawal examples.

3) John feels that he owes his organization hard work and loyalty while the company owes him fair treatment and satisfactory work conditions. This is an example of: A) career planning B) exit interview C) psychological contract D) transfer

Answer: C) psychological contract Explanation: C) The psychological contract is "an unwritten agreement that exists between employers and employees." The psychological contract identifies each party's mutual expectations.

27) Homelife, a national chain of high-end furniture stores, employs nearly 800 workers. In the past few years, the company's market share has dropped significantly, and employee turnover has increased. Upper management is considering the implementation of a new compensation policy in its efforts to turn the company around. Historically, the company has paid all employees similarly with some variation for seniority but no distinction between high and low performers. Which of the following questions is LEAST relevant to Homelife's decision to develop an aligned reward strategy? A) What compensation programs should Homelife use to reinforce necessary employee behaviors? B) How well does Homelife's current compensation program match the company's strategic aims? C) What compensation programs should Homelife use to reinforce desired employee behaviors? D) What are the results of Homelife employee salary surveys in regards to wage satisfaction?

Answer: D Explanation: D) An aligned reward strategy links a firm's compensation plan with its strategic aims. Homelife can create a total reward package including wages, incentives, and benefits that will generate the employee behaviors the firm needs to support and achieve its competitive strategy. Questions about employee behaviors and compensation are relevant, but a question about salary surveys is not.

27) Michele's firm does not have a formal mentoring program. However, entry-level employees, such as Michele, are encouraged to form relationships with experienced workers. Michele wants to make sure that she has an effective mentor relationship. Which of the following mentor relationship guidelines would NOT be recommended to Michele? A) Build trust. B) Share control between mentor and mentee. C) Clarify what you expect in terms of advice. D) Bring personal problems to mentor.

Answer: D Explanation: D) Because the supervisor is usually not a psychologist or trained career advisor, a mentor should often avoid giving advice on personal problems.

23) All of the following are typical activities of career coaches EXCEPT helping employees to ________. A) make 1-5 year career plans B) identify development needs C) obtain networking opportunities D) negotiate with firms for higher salaries

Answer: D Explanation: D) Career coaches help individual employees identify their development needs and obtain the training, professional development, and networking opportunities that they need to satisfy those needs. Career coaches generally help employees create 1- to 5-year plans showing where their careers with the firm may lead. Career coaches are not likely to be involved with salary negotiations.

98) ________ is reducing, usually dramatically, the number of people employed by a firm. A) Career development B) Coaching C) Transfer D) Downsizing

Answer: D Explanation: D) Downsizing means reducing, usually dramatically, the number of people employed by a firm.

1) Which of the following terms refers to all forms of pay or rewards going to employees and arising from their employment? A) salary B) employee benefits C) wage reimbursement D) employee compensation

Answer: D Explanation: D) Employee compensation refers to all forms of pay going to employees and arising from their employment. It has two main components, direct financial payments (wages, salaries, incentives, commissions, and bonuses) and indirect financial payments (financial benefits like employer-paid insurance and vacations).

25) Which of the following issues would LEAST likely be negotiated by unions? A) income security B) time off with pay C) health care benefits D) unpaid medical leave

Answer: D Explanation: D) Historically, the wage rate has been the main issue in collective bargaining. However, unions also negotiate other pay-related issues, including time off with pay, income security, cost-of-living adjustments, and health care benefits. Unpaid medical leave is addressed by the Family and Medical Leave Act.

17) Anita, a manager at a department store, needs to determine whether one of her employees is exempt or nonexempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act. Which of the following would be the best resource for Anita? A) organizational chart B) performance appraisal C) business plan D) job description

Answer: D Explanation: D) In all but the clearest situations, managers should carefully review the job description to determine if a job is exempt or nonexempt. Make sure, for instance, that the job currently does, in fact, require that the person perform, say, an exempt-type supervisory duty.

7) Dick's Sporting Goods is a sports and fitness retailer with over 300 stores in 34 states. After beginning as a small bait and tackle shop in 1948, Dick's has grown to become a leader in the sports and fitness retail industry. Many career opportunities are available in Dick's in areas as diverse as IT, product development, merchandising, and store management. Top management at Dick's realizes the importance of hiring and retaining quality employees. As a result, the firm has decided to implement policies, practices, and programs that support employees' career needs. Which of the following, if true, would best support the argument that Dick's should assign a coach to each new employee? A) The turnover rate of newly hired hourly employees at Dick's Sporting Goods is higher than the industry average. B) Many new employees at Dick's Sporting Goods have expressed interest in the firm's tuition reimbursement program. C) Dick's Sporting Goods has integrated preretirement counseling and succession planning into its career management practices. D) Dick's Sporting Goods uses talent management software to place new employees in the most appropriate positions.

Answer: A) The turnover rate of newly hired hourly employees at Dick's Sporting Goods is higher than the industry average Explanation: A) A high turnover rate of newly hired hourly employees suggests that employees are quitting because they do not know how to perform their jobs. Coaching involves educating, instructing, and training subordinates on short-term job-related skills, and it would most likely help reduce the turnover rate.

26) Based on research studies, which of the following is most likely a true statement about mentoring programs? A) Traditional mentoring programs are more effective for male than for female employees. B) When the mentor and protégé work in different departments, mentoring is more effective. C) Protégés have more respect for mentors who work two levels above their own rank in a firm. D) Required mentoring relationships are more effective than informal mentoring relationships.

Answer: A) Traditional mentoring programs are more effective for male than for female employees Explanation: A) Studies suggest that traditional mentoring is less effective for women than it is for men. For example, in one survey of employees who had "active mentoring relationships" in one recent year, 72% of the men received one or more promotions in the ensuing two years, compared with 65% of the women. Mentoring is more useful when mentors and protégés are in the same department. Trust is the main component of an effective mentoring relationship, not seniority. It makes little difference in the extent or quality of mentoring whether protégés volunteer to take part or are assigned formally to mentors.

12) Which of the following best describes career planning? A) a deliberate process through which someone becomes aware of personal skills, interests, knowledge, and motivations and establishes action plans to attain specific career goals B) the lifelong series of activities that contribute to a person's career exploration, establishment, success, and fulfillment C) a process of helping employees to better understand and develop their career skills and interests and to use these skills and interests most effectively D) the process of educating, instructing, and training subordinates as they develop their career interests and job skills

Answer: A) a deliberate process through which someone becomes aware of personal skills, interest, knowledge, and motivations and establishes action plans to attain specific career goals Explanation: A) Career planning is the deliberate process through which someone becomes aware of his or her personal skills, interests, knowledge, motivations, and other characteristics.

60) Robin, the HR manager at Rightway Enterprises, believes that job withdrawal has become a significant problem at the firm. Robin most likely came to this conclusion after observing all of the following employee behaviors EXCEPT ________. A) frequent vacation time requests B) idle employee conversations C) undeserved work breaks D) excessive absences

Answer: A) frequent vacation time requests Explanation: A) Poor attendance and voluntary turnover are two job withdrawal examples. Other types of job withdrawal include "taking undeserved work breaks, spending time in idle conversation and neglecting aspects of the job one is obligated to perform." Requesting vacation is not necessarily indicative of job withdrawal.

20) Which of the following is the organization's role in an employee's career development? A) providing mentoring opportunities to support growth B) participating in career development discussions C) providing timely performance feedback D) establishing goals and career plans

Answer: A) providing mentoring opportunities to support growth Explanation: A) It is the responsibility of an organization to provide mentoring opportunities to support an employee's growth. The employee is responsible for establishing career plans. Managers should discuss career development with employees and provide performance feedback in a timely manner.

2) Which of the following is NOT a type of direct financial payment? A) wages B) insurance C) incentives D) commissions

Answer: B Explanation: B) Employee compensation refers to all forms of pay going to employees and arising from their employment. It has two main components, direct financial payments (wages, salaries, incentives, commissions, and bonuses) and indirect financial payments (financial benefits like employer-paid insurance and vacations).

52) The tool managers use to meet employees' career development where the manager and employee jointly merge the latter's past performance, career preferences, and developmental needs into a formal career plan is called: A) orientation sessions B) career-oriented appraisals C) interest inventories D) graphic-rating scales

Answer: B Explanation: B) In career-oriented appraisals the supervisor and employee jointly merge the latter's past performance, career preferences, and developmental needs into a formal career plan.

29) Which of the following is most likely to occur when a new employee's high expectations and enthusiasm confront the reality of a boring job? A) halo effect B) reality shock C) disparate rejection D) cognitive dissonance

Answer: B Explanation: B) Reality shock refers to what occurs when a new employee's expectations and enthusiasm confront the reality of a boring or otherwise unattractive work situation.

7) Which of the following sets basic labor standards for employees working on any government contract that amounts to more than $10,000? A) Davis-Bacon Act B) Walsh-Healey Public Contract C) Fair Wages Act D) Fair Labor Standards Act

Answer: B Explanation: B) The 1936 Walsh-Healey Public Contract Act sets basic labor standards for employees working on any government contract that amounts to more than $10,000 and addresses wages, safety, and overtime.

16) Dick's Sporting Goods is a sports and fitness retailer with over 300 stores in 34 states. After beginning as a small bait and tackle shop in 1948, Dick's has grown to become a leader in the sports and fitness retail industry. Many career opportunities are available in Dick's in areas as diverse as IT, product development, merchandising, and store management. Top management at Dick's realizes the importance of hiring and retaining quality employees. As a result, the firm has decided to implement policies, practices, and programs that support employees' career needs. All of the following questions are relevant to Dick's Sporting Goods' decision to implement a career development program EXCEPT: A) What is the average length of time that an employee works for Dick's Sporting Goods? B) How would the profits of Dick's Sporting Goods be affected by a change in hiring practices? C) What are the career needs and opportunities available to minorities and women employed by Dick's Sporting Goods? D) What will be the effect on recruiting and placement if employees' interests and attitudes are taken into consideration by the HR department at Dick's Sporting Goods?

Answer: B) How would the profits of Dick's Sporting Goods be affected by a change in hiring practices? Explanation: B) Issues such as recruiting, employee commitment, career development needs, and promotion processes are all relevant to a decision to implement a career development program. Profits and hiring practices are less relevant to the decision.

21) Which of the following laws has the LEAST amount of influence on compensation decisions? A) Americans with Disabilities Act B) Labor Management Relations Act C) Family and Medical Leave Act D) Age Discrimination in Employment Act

Answer: B) Labor Management Relations Act Explanation: B) The ADA, Family and Medical Leave Act, and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act all impact compensation decisions made by organizations. The Labor Management Relations Act prohibited unfair union labor practices and enumerated the rights of employees as union members and has no impact on compensation issues.

18) All of the following are the role of the employer in an employee's career development EXCEPT ________. A) communicating policies and procedures B) analyzing interests, values, and skills C) providing performance feedback D) offering a variety of career paths

Answer: B) analyzing interests, values, and skills Explanation: B) It is the role of the employee to analyze his or her interests, values, and skills. Employers are responsible for communicating the firm's policies, providing training and feedback, and offering various career paths.

21) Which of the following refers to an organized learning event in which participants conduct self-assessments, set goals, and develop action plans? A) competency-based job analysis B) career planning workshop C) job instruction training D) management retreat

Answer: B) career planning workshop Explanation: B) A career planning workshop is "a planned learning event in which participants are expected to be actively involved, completing career planning exercises and inventories and participating in career skills practice sessions." A typical workshop includes a self-assessment, an environmental assessment, goal-setting, and action-planning.

17) In regards to an employee's career development, it is the primary responsibility of the ________ to make career plans, set goals, and utilize development opportunities. A) employer B) employee C) recruiter D) HR manager

Answer: B) employee Explanation: B) Employees are responsible for making career plans, setting goals, and utilizing development opportunities in respect to their own career development. Managers are responsible for providing feedback and developmental assignments, and the employer should provide training opportunities. No employee should abandon this task to others.

61) Which of the following would most likely reduce voluntary turnover? A) performance appraisal systems B) high unemployment rates C) numerous job opportunities D) downsizing requirements

Answer: B) high unemployment rates Explanation: B) High unemployment reduces voluntary turnover, and some locales have fewer job opportunities (and thus turnover) than do others.

85) An employer may transfer an employee for all these reasons EXCEPT ________. A) to vacate a position that is no longer needed B) personal enrichment C) to find a better fit position for the employee D) to give a displaced employee a chance for another assignment

Answer: B) personal enrichment Explanation: B) Personal enrichment is a reason an employee may seek a transfer, not the employer.

57) As an employer, what is the primary benefit of cutting a high turnover rate? A) selling stock B) saving money C) attracting applicants D) meeting legal obligations

Answer: B) saving money Explanation: B) High turnover rates have tangible and intangible costs for employers. Recruiting, screening, interviewing, testing, and training are costly. Intangible costs, such as lost productivity and supervising a new worker, waste time.

11) Which of the following is a specific example of a career development activity? A) job evaluation B) training workshop C) college recruitment D) performance appraisal

Answer: B) training workshop Explanation: B) Career development is the lifelong series of activities that contribute to a person's career exploration, establishment, success, and fulfillment. A training workshop is a specific method for career development.

75) Dick's Sporting Goods is a sports and fitness retailer with over 300 stores in 34 states. After beginning as a small bait and tackle shop in 1948, Dick's has grown to become a leader in the sports and fitness retail industry. Many career opportunities are available in Dick's in areas as diverse as IT, product development, merchandising, and store management. Top management at Dick's realizes the importance of hiring and retaining quality employees. As a result, the firm has decided to implement policies, practices, and programs that support employees' career needs. Which of the following, if true, would best support the argument that the firm should institute a flexible career track program? A) Executive positions at Dick's Sporting Goods are rewarded for a combination of seniority and competency. B) Situational interviews are used at Dick's Sporting Goods to screen potential store managers. C) Executive positions at Dick's Sporting Goods are predominantly held by men. D) Over half of all Dick's Sporting Goods stores are run by female managers.

Answer: C Explanation: C) A firm with few female executives may have inflexible promotional ladders that put women with child-raising duties at a disadvantage. If Dick's implemented a flexible career track with reduced hours and flexible work schedules, women would most likely stay at the firm and rise to high-level positions.