Scenario:
My name is Sam. After graduating college, I managed a small chain of fast food stores for about 2 years. I was happy and felt I was good and what I did. However, I really wanted to earn my MBA. I wanted to go back to school, but needed recommendations.
I called Tom, the regional manager and asked him if we could meet up to discuss my career path potential. Tom agreed, saying that he also had been meaning to reach out to me anyway.
Tom was more than happy to write me a glowing recommendation, he had always been approved of my performance on the job. We enjoyed a nice chat about that, until he shifted to why he wanted to talk to me.
Tom told me that the stores have been having a problem with supplies going missing. "Since we have a lot of Hispanics who work for us, I want you to keep an eye on them. Though theft is not occurring at any of your stores I want you to watch out. Those people are not trustworthy."
I was offended. My wife is a native of Mexico. I didn't want to fight with him, since I needed his recommendation, but I feel I should say something.
The Questions:
Think about the legal and managerial aspects of this situation.
Problem 1. What is the major problem that Sam faces?
Problem 2. If you were the regional manager--like Tom in this case---and you were suspicious of your employees, what would be the best course of action? Defend your stance with facts.