PUB3702
Assignment 2 Semester 1 2026
Unique number:
Due Date: July 2026
QUESTION 1 (2 ANSWERS PROVIDED)
Effective communication and listening are central responsibilities of managers in the public
sector, particularly in environments that depend on teamwork, coordination, and shared
accountability. In the scenario provided, Sam Maluleke, as the accounting manager in the
Department of National Education, is responsible not only for financial outputs but also for
the human dynamics within his section. After analysing the interaction between Sam and
Brian, it becomes clear that Sam does not demonstrate the qualities of a good listener. This
lack of effective listening contributes to ongoing learning gaps, weak integration, and
reduced motivation within the team. The discussion below critically evaluates Sam’s listening
behaviour and proposes practical strategies to overcome this managerial shortcoming.
Is Sam Maluleke a Good Listener?
Based on the interaction described, Sam Maluleke cannot be regarded as a good listener.
Listening, in a human resource management context, involves more than hearing words; it
requires attentiveness, empathy, openness, and a willingness to understand the employee’s
DISCLAIMER & TERMS OF USE
Educational Aid: These study notes are intended to be used as educational resources and should not be seen as a
replacement for individual research, critical analysis, or professional consultation. Students are encouraged to perform
their own research and seek advice from their instructors or academic advisors for specific assignment guidelines.
Personal Responsibility: While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information in
these study notes, the seller does not guarantee the completeness or correctness of all content. The buyer is
responsible for verifying the accuracy of the information and exercising their own judgment when applying it to their
assignments.
Academic Integrity: It is essential for students to maintain academic integrity and follow their institution's policies
regarding plagiarism, citation, and referencing. These study notes should be used as learning tools and sources of
inspiration. Any direct reproduction of the content without proper citation and acknowledgment may be considered
academic misconduct.
Limited Liability: The seller shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, losses, or consequences arising from
the use of these notes. This includes, but is not limited to, poor academic performance, penalties, or any other negative
consequences resulting from the application or misuse of the information provided.
, For additional support +27 81 278 3372
QUESTION 1 (2 ANSWERS PROVIDED)
Effective communication and listening are central responsibilities of managers in the
public sector, particularly in environments that depend on teamwork, coordination,
and shared accountability. In the scenario provided, Sam Maluleke, as the
accounting manager in the Department of National Education, is responsible not only
for financial outputs but also for the human dynamics within his section. After
analysing the interaction between Sam and Brian, it becomes clear that Sam does
not demonstrate the qualities of a good listener. This lack of effective listening
contributes to ongoing learning gaps, weak integration, and reduced motivation
within the team. The discussion below critically evaluates Sam’s listening behaviour
and proposes practical strategies to overcome this managerial shortcoming.
Is Sam Maluleke a Good Listener?
Based on the interaction described, Sam Maluleke cannot be regarded as a good
listener. Listening, in a human resource management context, involves more than
hearing words; it requires attentiveness, empathy, openness, and a willingness to
understand the employee’s perspective before forming judgments (Van der
Westhuizen & Ernst, 2021). Sam’s behaviour reflects several weaknesses
associated with poor listening practices.
Firstly, Sam immediately signals that Brian’s concerns are an inconvenience. He
states that he is busy with reports and instructs Brian to “be quick”. This creates a
power imbalance and discourages open communication. According to Wilkinson
(2016), employees are less likely to express genuine concerns when managers
appear rushed or dismissive, as this undermines psychological safety in the
workplace.
Secondly, Sam dominates the conversation and makes assumptions about Brian’s
behaviour without first allowing Brian to explain his experience. Brian approaches
Sam hesitantly, indicating discomfort and vulnerability. Instead of asking open-ended
questions, Sam quickly shifts into a corrective and directive mode, telling Brian that
he has not done enough to fit in. This response demonstrates evaluative listening
rather than active listening, where the manager judges before fully understanding the
situation (Berman, 2013).
Assignment 2 Semester 1 2026
Unique number:
Due Date: July 2026
QUESTION 1 (2 ANSWERS PROVIDED)
Effective communication and listening are central responsibilities of managers in the public
sector, particularly in environments that depend on teamwork, coordination, and shared
accountability. In the scenario provided, Sam Maluleke, as the accounting manager in the
Department of National Education, is responsible not only for financial outputs but also for
the human dynamics within his section. After analysing the interaction between Sam and
Brian, it becomes clear that Sam does not demonstrate the qualities of a good listener. This
lack of effective listening contributes to ongoing learning gaps, weak integration, and
reduced motivation within the team. The discussion below critically evaluates Sam’s listening
behaviour and proposes practical strategies to overcome this managerial shortcoming.
Is Sam Maluleke a Good Listener?
Based on the interaction described, Sam Maluleke cannot be regarded as a good listener.
Listening, in a human resource management context, involves more than hearing words; it
requires attentiveness, empathy, openness, and a willingness to understand the employee’s
DISCLAIMER & TERMS OF USE
Educational Aid: These study notes are intended to be used as educational resources and should not be seen as a
replacement for individual research, critical analysis, or professional consultation. Students are encouraged to perform
their own research and seek advice from their instructors or academic advisors for specific assignment guidelines.
Personal Responsibility: While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information in
these study notes, the seller does not guarantee the completeness or correctness of all content. The buyer is
responsible for verifying the accuracy of the information and exercising their own judgment when applying it to their
assignments.
Academic Integrity: It is essential for students to maintain academic integrity and follow their institution's policies
regarding plagiarism, citation, and referencing. These study notes should be used as learning tools and sources of
inspiration. Any direct reproduction of the content without proper citation and acknowledgment may be considered
academic misconduct.
Limited Liability: The seller shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, losses, or consequences arising from
the use of these notes. This includes, but is not limited to, poor academic performance, penalties, or any other negative
consequences resulting from the application or misuse of the information provided.
, For additional support +27 81 278 3372
QUESTION 1 (2 ANSWERS PROVIDED)
Effective communication and listening are central responsibilities of managers in the
public sector, particularly in environments that depend on teamwork, coordination,
and shared accountability. In the scenario provided, Sam Maluleke, as the
accounting manager in the Department of National Education, is responsible not only
for financial outputs but also for the human dynamics within his section. After
analysing the interaction between Sam and Brian, it becomes clear that Sam does
not demonstrate the qualities of a good listener. This lack of effective listening
contributes to ongoing learning gaps, weak integration, and reduced motivation
within the team. The discussion below critically evaluates Sam’s listening behaviour
and proposes practical strategies to overcome this managerial shortcoming.
Is Sam Maluleke a Good Listener?
Based on the interaction described, Sam Maluleke cannot be regarded as a good
listener. Listening, in a human resource management context, involves more than
hearing words; it requires attentiveness, empathy, openness, and a willingness to
understand the employee’s perspective before forming judgments (Van der
Westhuizen & Ernst, 2021). Sam’s behaviour reflects several weaknesses
associated with poor listening practices.
Firstly, Sam immediately signals that Brian’s concerns are an inconvenience. He
states that he is busy with reports and instructs Brian to “be quick”. This creates a
power imbalance and discourages open communication. According to Wilkinson
(2016), employees are less likely to express genuine concerns when managers
appear rushed or dismissive, as this undermines psychological safety in the
workplace.
Secondly, Sam dominates the conversation and makes assumptions about Brian’s
behaviour without first allowing Brian to explain his experience. Brian approaches
Sam hesitantly, indicating discomfort and vulnerability. Instead of asking open-ended
questions, Sam quickly shifts into a corrective and directive mode, telling Brian that
he has not done enough to fit in. This response demonstrates evaluative listening
rather than active listening, where the manager judges before fully understanding the
situation (Berman, 2013).
