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Ashley Arnett, a hard-working bank teller, has sent a request asking that First Federal create a program to reimburse the tuition and book expenses for employees taking college courses. Although some companies have such a program, First Federal has not felt that it could indulge in such an expensive employee perk. Moreover, the CEO is not convinced that companies see any direct benefit from such a program. Employees improve their educational credentials and skills, but what is to keep them from moving that education and skill set to another employer?
First Federal has over 200 employees. If even a fraction of them started classes, the company could see a huge bill for the cost of tuition and books. Because the bank is facing stiff competition and its profits are sinking, the expense of such a program is out of the question. In addition, it would involve administration—applications, monitoring, and record-keeping. It is just too much of a hassle. When employees were hard to hire and retain, companies had to offer employment perks. But with a soft economy, such inducements are unnecessary.
As director of Human Resources at First Federal, send a negative response to Ashley Arnett. Mention the CEO, Richard Houston. The answer is a definite no, but you want to soften the blow and retain the loyalty of this conscientious employee. Should you send a memo or a letter?
| DATE: |
Current |
| TO: |
Ashley Arnett |
| FROM: |
Your Name, Director, Human Resources |
| SUBJECT: |
Your Inquiry Regarding Tuition Reimbursement |
We appreciate your thoughtful message requesting that First Federal establish a program to reimburse the costs of college expenses such as tuition and books.
You’re smart, Ashley, in striving to further your education by returning to school to take additional courses that improve your career skills. Thriving companies are able to offer tuition reimbursement to selected employees when they return to school. These programs are expensive to an organization because they involve not only the actual cost of tuition and books but also the cost of program administration.
As you know, First Federal is facing stiff competition in the banking industry and our profits have not been strong. Although a tuition-reimbursement program cannot be considered at this time, we are hopeful that it might be possible in the future.
CEO Richard Houston joins me in expressing our appreciation for the fine work you are doing at First Federal. We admire your desire to advance your education and wish you all the best.
Source: Guffey, M. E. (2008). Business Communication: Process and Product, 6e. Mason, Ohio: Cengage Learning, p. 307.
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