Case Apple

Case Apple

Running head: APPLE - CASE STUDY 1

Apple - Case Study 1
                                                    Sample Person
Davenport University
Organizational Behavior
MGMT321
Melissa Sherman
July 04, 2011

Apple - Case Study 1
Apple is often looked to as a cutting-edge company.   This is due in part to some of their ‘out of the box’ techniques and strategies such as the black card strategy.   Another example would be their training content for employees.   The attention to employees’ job satisfaction also sets them apart.   Motivation of their sales force further contributes to their success.
As stated in our case assignment, one recruiting technique used by Apple is its black card strategy.   This was implemented when a recruiter recognized qualities in a customer-service oriented individual that was not applying (or necessarily looking) for a job.   A black card with the compliments of the bearer would be presented, and further instructions for applying for a job were printed on the reverse.   This strategy is simply put, ‘out of the box’ thinking. This is a very effective way to reach those individuals who are not actively seeking a position, but would still be considered key talent.   What better time to solicit applicants than when they have been seen in action?   This method is not unethical, but merely a very direct approach (Colquitt, 2011).
Training programs are best if they are consistent throughout an organization.   This practice allows all employees to begin their new careers with the same foundation of company knowledge.   This is true of foundational knowledge, but a specific program may perhaps be best if customized to a specific job function.   Apple’s success rate at orienting new employees could attribute to the 40 hours of training that new employees must undergo upon hire.   This training is meant to reinforce the culture of the company while simultaneously giving new employees skills and knowledge they will need in order to be...