7. Moved with Compassion; Acting with Fairness

This chapter highlights the fourth of six findings from the redemptive managerial behaviors research, in which managers expressed empathy for the reinstated workers in terms of encouragement and a compassionate sympathy for the workers, as they themselves had seen or been offered second chances. The managers’ expressions of support were balanced with a careful monitoring of the reinstatement process to assure that this was done with equity and with justice towards the reinstated employees, to give the reinstated employees a chance to get the help they needed to have an opportunity for success the second time around. Managers generally resisted the opportunity to attribute negative motives to their employees and demonstrate resentment, but instead offered support and a fair chance for the reinstated employees.