OGL 481 Pro-Seminar I: PCA-Symbolic Frame

Worksheet

Worksheet Objectives:

1. Describe the symbolic frame

2. Apply the symbolic frame to your personal case situation

Complete the following making sure to support your ideas and cite from the textbook and other
course materials per APA guidelines. After the peer review, you have a chance to update this and
format for your Electronic Portfolio due in Module 6.

1) Briefly restate your situation from Module 1 and your role.

In my role at Blanco Tacos and Tequila, part of Sam Fox Restaurants, I was responsible
for clearing and setting tables and maintaining cleanliness throughout the establishment. My
position as a busser placed me at the frontline when the COVID-19 pandemic led to significant
staff reductions, which had a deep impact on the restaurant industry and its workers.

2) Describe how the symbols of the organization influenced the situation.

At Blanco Tacos and Tequila, the organizational symbols such as the restaurant's brand
image, interior decor representing vibrant and festive Mexican culture, and the uniforms worn by
the staff played a pivotal role during the pandemic. These symbols, which were designed to
convey a sense of warmth and hospitality, faced a paradox as the restaurant had to enforce social
distancing and minimize human interaction, fundamental to its identity. This shift disrupted the
usual vibrant atmosphere and potentially alienated customers and staff, affecting the overall
morale and identity of the establishment. Moreover, the adherence to traditional symbols did not
fully align with the new health protocols, creating a conflict between established brand identity
and the immediate needs for safety and compliance with health regulations.

3) Recommend how you would use organizational symbols for an alternative course of
action regarding your case.

To navigate the situation more effectively, I would recommend redefining and leveraging
the organizational symbols to better align with the current reality and future uncertainties. For
instance, introducing new symbols such as "safety" and "community" could be vital. We could
redesign the restaurant's layout and decor to symbolize safety but still retain the festive and
communal spirit, perhaps through the use of spaced seating arrangements adorned with vibrant
protective screens. Staff uniforms could be adapted to include masks that match the festive
themes of their attire, symbolizing a commitment to customer safety while maintaining the
brand's identity. Additionally, promotional materials and social media could be used to reinforce
these new symbols, emphasizing the restaurant's adaptability and commitment to customer and
staff well-being. This strategic use of symbols could help in maintaining customer loyalty and
employee morale by aligning the necessary safety measures with the core identity of the
restaurant.

4) Reflect on what you would do or not do differently given what you have learned
about this frame.

Reflecting on the use of organizational symbols, I've learned the importance of these
elements in shaping perceptions and behaviors within the workplace. If I were to approach a
similar situation again, I would focus more on the strategic use of symbols to align with the
changing circumstances. Previously, I underestimated the power of symbols in maintaining
continuity and morale during crises. Moving forward, I would advocate for a proactive
evaluation and possible redesign of organizational symbols to better meet the evolving
challenges. This might include more regular updates to decor, branding, and even the mission
statement to reflect current realities and future aspirations. Such adaptability can turn symbols
into powerful tools for navigating crises, ensuring they reinforce a sense of purpose and direction
amidst uncertainty.