[GRE writing] Dec. 31, 2023

1.

Question:

The following is a memorandum from the president of a manufacturing company:

'Over the past year, our company has experienced a decline in productivity. To address this issue, we should implement a policy requiring employees to work additional hours without overtime pay. This strategy will alow us to increase output without incurring extra costs.

 

Model Answer:

The president's argument proposes addressing a decline in productivity by implementing a policy that requires employees to work additional hours without overtime pay. However, a thorough analysis reveals several flaws in the reasoning, including potential negative impacts on employee morale, long-term productivity, and overall company performance.

 

Firstly, the argument assumes a direct correlation between increased working hours and improved productivity without considering potential negative consequences. Requiring employees to work longer hours without additional compensation may lead to burnout, decreased job satisfaction, and ultimately, a decline in overall morale. These factors can contribute to a further decrease in productivity as employees become fatigued and disengaged.

 

Moreover, the argument overlooks the long-term impact on employee well-being and retention. A policy that prioritizes short-term gains over the welfare of employees may result in increased turnover, as employees seek companies that value work-life balance and fair compensation. High turnover rates can disrupt workflow, decrease institutional knowledge, and ultimately hinder long-term productivity.

 

Additionally, the assumption that increased output can be achieved without incurring extra costs is dubious. The potential costs associated with decreased employee morale, higher turnover rates, and potential legal issues related to labor practices may outweigh the perceived benefits of increased productivity. A more comprehensive cost-benefit analysis is necessary to evaluate the viability of the proposed policy.

 

In conclusion, the president's proposal to address declining productivity by requiring additional hours without overtime pay lacks consideration of potential negative impacts on employee morale, long-term productivity, and overall company performance. A more thoughtful approach that prioritizes employee well-being and considers the broader implications is essential for sustainable and effective solutions.

 

2.

Question:

The following is a memorandum from the president of a manufacturing company:

'Over the past year, our company has experienced a decline in productivity. To address this issue, we should implement a policy requiring employees to work additional hours without overtime pay. This strategy will allow us to increase output without incurring extra costs.'

 

Model Answer:

The president's argument proposes addressing a decline in productivity by implementing a policy that requires employees to work additional hours without overtime pay. However, a thorough analysis reveals several flaws in the reasoning, including potential negative impacts on employee morale, long-term productivity, and overall company performance.

 

Firstly, the argument assumes a direct correlation between increased working hours and improved productivity without considering potential negative consequences. Requiring employees to work longer hours without additional compensation may lead to burnout, decreased job satisfaction, and ultimately, a decline in overall morale. These factors can contribute to a further decrease in productivity as employees become fatigued and disengaged.

 

Moreover, the argument overlooks the long-term impact on employee well-being and retention. A policy that prioritizes short-term gains over the welfare of employees may result in increased turnover, as employees seek companies that value work-life balance and fair compensation. High turnover rates can disrupt workflow, decrease institutional knowledge, and ultimately hinder long-term productivity.

 

Additionally, the assumption that increased output can be achieved without incurring extra costs is dubious. The potential costs associated with decreased employee morale, higher turnover rates, and potential legal issues related to labor practices may outweigh the perceived benefits of increased productivity. A more comprehensive cost-benefit analysis is necessary to evaluate the viability of the proposed policy.

 

In conclusion, the president's proposal to address declining productivity by requiring additional hours without overtime pay lacks consideration of potential negative impacts on employee morale, long-term productivity, and overall company performance. A more thoughtful approach that prioritizes employee well-being and considers the broader implications is essential for sustainable and effective solutions.