Final Paper

The purpose of the Final Paper is to apply your understanding of industrial/organizational psychology to a specific job and organization. This paper should be an objective analysis of a specific job in a particular work organization. It may be a place that you or a friend or family member is currently working.

Be sure to address the following discussion points in your paper:

1 Describe the organization as a whole and a specific job within this organization. Is there a formal job description? Include a complete job description (if available) as an appendix. Does this organization use a formal job analysis? If so, describe it.

2 Explain how employees are recruited and selected by the organization. Do they use tests, interviews or application blanks? If there is a standard application, include a copy with your paper as an appendix). Is there a formal job evaluation that determines the appropriate pay levels for different jobs and employees?

3 Explain the criteria that are used to appraise employee performance. How are employees appraised? How often are they evaluated and by whom?

4 Discuss the kinds of training/development which are a part of this job. How effective is the training?

5 Describe some of the specific stressors in this job and the company's communication process.

6 Discuss how the organization or your specific supervisor motivates his/her employees. What motivation theory best seems to apply? Identify the leadership approach or theory which best explains this organization and discuss how it is applied.

7 Describe some of the various groups that exist in your workplace. What factors affect group performance in your job? Use at least one theory in your analysis of this setting.

8 Describe changes you would suggest for improving this job and/or organization.