PUB3702
Assignment 2
Semester 2
DUE: September 2025
, ASSIGNMENT 2
Public Human Resource Management
Essay: Evaluating Sam Maluleke’s Listening Skills and Managerial Involvement in
Workplace Relations
Introduction
Strong workplace relationships depend on effective communication, trust, and
management practices that encourage cooperation and inclusivity. Listening forms a
central part of managerial communication, while a manager’s level of involvement
directly affects employee motivation, satisfaction, and overall performance (Robbins &
Judge, 2022). The case of Sam Maluleke provides a useful context to explore how
listening and managerial participation intersect in shaping workplace dynamics. As a
manager, his listening style and engagement in employee relations influence both team
cohesion and organisational success. This essay critically assesses Sam Maluleke’s
listening abilities and his managerial involvement in workplace relations, supported by
relevant communication and management theories.
Listening Skills in the Workplace
The Role of Listening in Management
Listening is not merely about hearing words; it requires actively interpreting and making
sense of verbal and non-verbal messages, including emotions and hidden meanings
(Brownell, 2012). For managers, strong listening skills build trust, minimise conflict, and
ensure that employees feel heard and valued (Stewart & Thomas, 2016). Conversely,
weak listening habits often result in misunderstandings, low staff morale, and strained
workplace relationships.
Evaluation of Sam’s Listening Style
Observations suggest that Sam Maluleke shows both strengths and weaknesses in his
listening approach. In structured meetings, he demonstrates attentiveness by taking
notes and occasionally offering feedback, which aligns with the principles of active
listening.
Assignment 2
Semester 2
DUE: September 2025
, ASSIGNMENT 2
Public Human Resource Management
Essay: Evaluating Sam Maluleke’s Listening Skills and Managerial Involvement in
Workplace Relations
Introduction
Strong workplace relationships depend on effective communication, trust, and
management practices that encourage cooperation and inclusivity. Listening forms a
central part of managerial communication, while a manager’s level of involvement
directly affects employee motivation, satisfaction, and overall performance (Robbins &
Judge, 2022). The case of Sam Maluleke provides a useful context to explore how
listening and managerial participation intersect in shaping workplace dynamics. As a
manager, his listening style and engagement in employee relations influence both team
cohesion and organisational success. This essay critically assesses Sam Maluleke’s
listening abilities and his managerial involvement in workplace relations, supported by
relevant communication and management theories.
Listening Skills in the Workplace
The Role of Listening in Management
Listening is not merely about hearing words; it requires actively interpreting and making
sense of verbal and non-verbal messages, including emotions and hidden meanings
(Brownell, 2012). For managers, strong listening skills build trust, minimise conflict, and
ensure that employees feel heard and valued (Stewart & Thomas, 2016). Conversely,
weak listening habits often result in misunderstandings, low staff morale, and strained
workplace relationships.
Evaluation of Sam’s Listening Style
Observations suggest that Sam Maluleke shows both strengths and weaknesses in his
listening approach. In structured meetings, he demonstrates attentiveness by taking
notes and occasionally offering feedback, which aligns with the principles of active
listening.
