1. In which major area can human resources managers make a significant contribution toward productivity improvements?
A. Employee assistance and benefits
B. Improved work area design
C. Better allocation of capital equipment
D. Quality organization and design Correct
Explanation
Human resources managers can significantly enhance productivity through quality organization and design, as this involves structuring roles and processes to optimize efficiency. Employee assistance and benefits (A) focus on support, not direct productivity. Work area design (B) and capital equipment allocation (C) are typically managed by operations or facilities teams. Choice D aligns with HR's strategic role in organizational effectiveness.
2. Which generation of workers is especially resistant to authority due to cynicism regarding decisions made by managers?
A. Generation X Correct
B. Generation Z
C. Millennials
D. Baby boomers
Explanation
Generation X, born roughly between 1965 and 1980, is known for skepticism toward authority due to economic and social changes during their formative years, fostering cynicism about managerial decisions. Generation Z (B) and Millennials (C) are more collaborative, while Baby Boomers (D) often respect hierarchy. Choice A best fits the described trait. This generational characteristic is widely noted in workplace studies.
3. Which internal factor refers to the firm's equipment and knowledge used to produce goods and services?
A. Competition
B. Culture
C. Size
D. Technology Correct
Explanation
Technology refers to the firm's equipment and knowledge used to produce goods and services, directly impacting production processes. Competition (A) is external, culture (B) relates to values, and size (C) refers to scale, not production means. Choice D accurately identifies the internal factor. This aligns with standard business definitions of technology.
4. Which skill that focuses on understanding the firm's business objectives should human resources managers acquire to allow them to contribute to the firm in a strategic way?
A. Knowledge of the external political arena
B. Knowledge of roles in the human resources arena
C. Knowledge of financial statements Correct
D. Knowledge of overall tactical activities
Explanation
Knowledge of financial statements enables HR managers to understand business objectives and align HR strategies with financial goals, contributing strategically. External political knowledge (A) is less relevant, HR roles (B) are operational, and tactical activities (D) are not strategic. Choice C supports strategic alignment. Financial literacy is key for HR's strategic role.
5. Which area of expertise is useful for a human resources specialist assigned to work with unions?
A. Organizational development
B. Payroll accounting
C. Labor relations Correct
D. Sexual harassment training
Explanation
Labor relations expertise is essential for an HR specialist working with unions, as it involves negotiating and managing union relationships. Organizational development (A) focuses on structure, payroll accounting (B) is administrative, and harassment training (D) is unrelated to unions. Choice C directly addresses union interactions. This expertise ensures effective union collaboration.