PUB3702
Assignment 2
Semester 1
Due March 2026
, Question 1
Would you say that Sam Maluleke is a good listener?
Sam Maluleke cannot be regarded as a good listener based on the interaction
described in the case study.
Listening in a management context involves more than hearing words. It requires giving
full attention, encouraging the speaker, clarifying meaning, and responding in a way that
shows understanding and empathy (Nel et al., 2017). In this scenario, Sam fails to
demonstrate these core listening behaviours.
Firstly, Sam controls the conversation from the start. When Brian approaches his office,
Sam immediately sets a condition by stating that Brian must be quick because he has
reports to complete. This signals to Brian that his concern is not a priority. Effective
listening requires managers to create a safe space where employees feel comfortable
to express themselves without feeling rushed or dismissed (Robbins and Judge, 2022).
Secondly, Sam interrupts Brian before Brian can fully explain his concern. Brian
attempts to speak about his relationship with the rest of the section, but Sam takes over
the conversation and immediately shifts into a critical tone. Instead of asking open
ended questions such as “Can you explain how you are experiencing the team?” Sam
assumes he already understands the problem. This behaviour reflects selective
listening, where the listener focuses on responding rather than understanding (Nel et
al., 2017).
Thirdly, Sam shows little empathy or emotional awareness. Brian’s behaviour, such as
isolating himself and avoiding social interaction, may indicate discomfort, lack of
confidence, or difficulty adjusting to the organisational culture. A good listener would
acknowledge Brian’s feelings and explore possible reasons for his withdrawal. Sam
instead places full responsibility on Brian without recognising that integration is a shared
responsibility between the individual, the manager, and the team (Swanepoel et al.,
2019).
Assignment 2
Semester 1
Due March 2026
, Question 1
Would you say that Sam Maluleke is a good listener?
Sam Maluleke cannot be regarded as a good listener based on the interaction
described in the case study.
Listening in a management context involves more than hearing words. It requires giving
full attention, encouraging the speaker, clarifying meaning, and responding in a way that
shows understanding and empathy (Nel et al., 2017). In this scenario, Sam fails to
demonstrate these core listening behaviours.
Firstly, Sam controls the conversation from the start. When Brian approaches his office,
Sam immediately sets a condition by stating that Brian must be quick because he has
reports to complete. This signals to Brian that his concern is not a priority. Effective
listening requires managers to create a safe space where employees feel comfortable
to express themselves without feeling rushed or dismissed (Robbins and Judge, 2022).
Secondly, Sam interrupts Brian before Brian can fully explain his concern. Brian
attempts to speak about his relationship with the rest of the section, but Sam takes over
the conversation and immediately shifts into a critical tone. Instead of asking open
ended questions such as “Can you explain how you are experiencing the team?” Sam
assumes he already understands the problem. This behaviour reflects selective
listening, where the listener focuses on responding rather than understanding (Nel et
al., 2017).
Thirdly, Sam shows little empathy or emotional awareness. Brian’s behaviour, such as
isolating himself and avoiding social interaction, may indicate discomfort, lack of
confidence, or difficulty adjusting to the organisational culture. A good listener would
acknowledge Brian’s feelings and explore possible reasons for his withdrawal. Sam
instead places full responsibility on Brian without recognising that integration is a shared
responsibility between the individual, the manager, and the team (Swanepoel et al.,
2019).
