January 13, 2015

Indian Diamond Company Rewards Employees with Cars, Homes, and Jewelry

Unlocking Word Meanings
 今日の単語・フレーズ

Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article. 

1. know no bounds /noʊ noʊ baʊndz/ (idiom) – to have or feel an emotion that is without limit
Example: The boss’ kindness knows no bounds.

2. bonus /ˈboʊ nəs/ (n.) – a reward given in exchange for one’s good performance at work
Example: His company gave him a large bonus after signing famous people in as clients.

3. earmark /ˈɪərˌmɑrk/ (v.) – to reserve a certain amount of money for a certain use
Example: The couple earmarked half of their annual salaries for a long vacation abroad.

4. abundantly /əˈbʌn dənt li/ (adv.) – in a great amount or extent
Example: Jewels in India are produced abundantly.

5. go from rags to riches /goʊ frəm rægz tʊ ˈrɪtʃ ɪz/ (idiom) – to begin life in poverty and financially succeed later on
Example: Her family went from rags to riches after discovering gold coins buried in their backyard.



Article
 ニュース記事

Read the text below.
The generosity of an Indian diamond employer knows no bounds as he gives new homes, cars, and jewelries to his most loyal employees.

Savjibhai Dholakia is the chairman of Hari Krishna Exports, a diamond-export company in western India. The company has over 9,000 employees—each has his or her own reason to stay with the company. However, many would say that the greatest reward in working for Dholakia is the loyalty bonuses. In October, more than 1000 employees received 8,000 dollars’ worth of either a car, a two-bedroom apartment, or gold and diamond jewelry from the company.

Dholakia’s generosity to his employees is as legendary as the success of his business. The company manufactures and distributes quality diamonds to more than 70 countries. From its annual revenue of 60 billion rupees, the company earmarks 500 million rupees as funds for employee privileges.

Aside from loyalty bonuses, the company also provides other benefits for its workers. These include special facilities like gyms and kitchens, family programs, and insurance support.

The company‘s loyalty program began two years ago. Although the bonuses were given based on loyalty and productivity, Dholakia said that the bonuses are his way of sharing the company’s financial success to his employees. He also believes that abundantly rewarding one’s employees for their hard work nurtures commitment, a better work habit, and a better lifestyle.

Dholakia himself came from a humble background. He never finished his primary schooling; instead, he spent his young life as a diamond-polishing worker. With hard work and determination, Dholakia went from rags to riches in ten years, founding his own company in 1991.

Viewpoint Discussion
 ディスカッションテーマ

Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.  

Discussion A

·         Would you want to work for an employer like Dholakia? Why or why not?
·         If you were an employer, would you be as generous as Dholakia? Why or why not?

Discussion B

·         How is generosity shown in your country? Please explain your answer.
·         Do you think loyalty programs or bonuses are important to motivate employees? Why or why not?