Scenario 3
You work at a large hotel in a socially diverse team. The reception team is made up of Fathima, a 20-year-old Muslim woman born in Australia who loves art; Charlie, a 33-year-old Buddhist from India who loves to play soccer on the weekend; and yourself. Sam, a 20-year-old Indigenous Australian from Queensland, is one of the porters. Cheryl, the accounts manager, is Jewish and has three young grandchildren who she often helps to babysit. Each team member has their own background and customs.
1. Charlie has been getting frustrated at work, as Fathima prays 5 times daily as part of her religious practices and this sometimes leaves Charlie at reception by himself during peak times. Charlie knows little about Islam. He has complained to you when you have worked with him, and made jokes about Fathima. What social and cultural issues might be causing this conflict?
1. You feel unsure as to what to do about the conflict between Charlie and Fathima. What are your responsibilities as a fellow team member in this situation?
1. Describe the steps that can be taken by management to ensure that this cross-cultural misunderstanding between Charlie and Fathima is managed before it escalates.