Instructions

Read the following scenario and answer the THREE questions that follow.

MultiKrack, one of the oldest FMCG companies in Eastern India, was run by the Malhotras, a traditional business family, for generations. The organization believed that key positions should be held only by family members and close friends.

But, as the organization grew in size, the top management decided to bring in fresh thinking and fill key positions from premier management institutions. The need for such a decision was also brought upon by changes in consumer preferences, which the top management felt could be best handled by recruiting premier talent from the younger generation (Gen Z).

MultiKrack drew the best talent, from premier management institutions, by offering highly attractive salaries. The first batch of Gen Z management trainees joined MultiKrack. Anindita was one of the seven management trainees recruited. She reported to Uday, a senior manager, who directly reported to the top management.

Question 29

In one of the meetings, Uday was making a presentation on positioning their most popular product to make it more appealing to Gen Z. Unhappy with the discussion, Anindita candidly shared her concern regarding the assumptions Uday made about Gen Z. Uday immediately retorted: “Anindita, this is a discussion for adults. Kids, like you, should listen for a few months before sharing their opinion.” Further, he remarked, “you Gen Z have opinions about everything regardless of the subject.” Thereafter, he brushed aside any views Anindita attempted to share during the discussion. After the meeting, Anindita felt offended. However, when she discussed it with other management trainees, they did not find anything wrong with what Uday said. Even then, she decided to do something about such a treatment, since it would be seen as an approved behaviour.

Which of the following options will BEST help Anindita in taking an appropriate stand against Uday’s behaviour?

Solution

Anindita’s concern is not merely that Uday disagreed with her views, but that he dismissed her contribution based on her age and generation rather than evaluating the merit of her arguments. Since she wants to challenge this behaviour and prevent it from becoming an accepted norm, she should address the issue directly with Uday. Option C is the best answer, as meeting him in person allows her to assert her position professionally and remind him that MultiKrack recruited her for the fresh perspective and capabilities she brings. This approach addresses the problem at its source without unnecessarily escalating the matter or involving others.

Option A is inappropriate because asking the other trainees to join a petition may create unnecessary group confrontation, especially when they do not share her concerns. Option B is premature, as she should first attempt to resolve the matter directly with Uday before lodging a formal complaint with top management. Option D would mean accepting Uday’s discriminatory treatment and allowing it to continue, undermining the very purpose of recruiting young talent. Option E is also unsuitable because asking colleagues to speak on her behalf would prevent her from asserting herself directly and taking ownership of the issue.

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