Question

Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow.

Guardian Angels, a startup, offers childcare services for working parents. They have a set of trained caregivers and provide child and toddler care services at the client's residence. They offer two packages. Parents can opt for services in either the morning or the evening shift. Guardian Angels soon gained popularity and was flooded with demand for its services. However, it is understaffed and struggles to meet the growing demand. Since it is a startup, Guardian Angels does not want to refuse the clients. Therefore, it decides to pay an additional amount to the employees who are now required to work in both shifts. The increased work pressure leads to low morale among the employees.

1. ‘However, it is understaffed and struggles to meet the growing demand.’ Which area of job planning needs to be reconsidered by Guardian Angels? (1)
2. Name the method of remuneration followed by Guardian Angels. (1)
3. Outline any two roles that Angel Investors play in a startup venture. (2)
4. Discuss any two strategies that Guardian Angels can adopt to raise the morale of its employees. (4)

Answer 1

1. The aspect of job planning that Guardian Angels needs to review is manpower planning. To cope with the increasing demand for its services, the organisation must recruit additional staff. Effective manpower planning will help ensure there are sufficient employees to manage the workload efficiently.
2. The remuneration method used by Guardian Angels is the Time Rate System. Under this system, employees are paid according to the time they work, such as on an hourly, daily, or weekly basis. Since Guardian Angels pays extra wages for additional shifts, it clearly follows this method.
3. Roles of Angel Investors:
   1. Provide Capital: Angel investors supply financial support to startups to assist in their growth and expansion.
   2. Mentorship: They also provide guidance, experience, and advice to help startups overcome challenges and make informed strategic decisions.
4. Two strategies that Guardian Angels can adopt to raise the morale of its employees are:
   1. Employee Recognition Programs: Appreciating and acknowledging employees’ efforts can boost their motivation and morale.
   2. Work-Life Balance Initiatives: Introducing flexible working hours or allowing extra breaks can help employees handle work pressures better and reduce stress.