Case Questions

1. How would you describe the gap between Elaine’s expectations and her
reality and what is the impact on her stress level?
A: Elaine would have expected collaboration with a proposal team putting
together such a big proposal but in reality economic down turn has hit so
hard that ABC has had to make significant cuts in its staff. It started with
administrative staff - first it was two administrative assistants, then a
junior engineer, then two tenured project managers. This year alone the
Westport office of ABC Civil Engineering cut 35% of its staff. Due to
overload of work and emotional instability Elaine would been going
through immense stress.
2. How would you describe the gap between Ted’s expectations and his
reality and what is the impact on his stress level?
A: Ted started with ABC 25 years ago. He is quite attached with the firm.
He’s been involved in some the firm’s best projects and he took over the
managing partner position 3 years ago. Ted expected to give more time
on growth of company and nurturing younger engineers. But in reality, he
has found himself spending more time on administrative tasks and less on
nurturing the growth of younger engineers. He has never faced such an
extreme level of stress in his career.
3. What factors might be driving these gaps for ABC Engineering?
A: The reasons for the gap between expectations and the reality might be
summed below:
a. The economic slowdown.
b. Cut in staff.
c. Work overload.
d. Deferred bonuses.
4. What actions can ABC Engineering take to close the expectation gap
and reduce workplace stress?

A: The first action ABC Engineering should do is consulting experts and

professionals on ways to increase connectedness and motivation of their
employees. Secondly, organize parties and make their employees feel
valued at work.

5. List three personal actions either Elaine or Ted can take to reduce their
personal stress.
A: The three most important actions during work stress should be:
a. Job Analysis.
b. Rational and positive thinking.
c. Thought awareness.