Everyone wants to be compensated fairly for the hard work, but in every business organization, there will be some form of inequality. Whether it’s differences in pay, differences in terms of benefits, or even struggles in meeting basic essential needs, there’s going to be some problem that most management teams will have to face.
What are Labor Unions?
Human resource management teams are often created to meet employees’ needs and ensure that employees are happy with their compensation. Fairly rewarding the workforce for the effort and energy they put in will usually keep them satisfied.
However, this isn’t always the same for every company as there’s bound to be disgruntled employees who want better working conditions. Most of the time, these employees will form labor unions to get better compensation, or in some cases, more employee “rights.”
Having a labor union can be detrimental to the productivity of a business and its employees’ efficiency. However, unions form several reasons, but this has its roots in the upper management, failing to acknowledge its employees’ grievances. In terms of reputation, having a labor union can also tarnish a company’s reputation as most individuals outside the company might see it as a sign of poor management.
But realistically, what causes labor unions to form and some intuitive ways of negotiating with unions? Since unions are often inadequate for businesses, it’s only appropriate to ensure that our workforce is in a functional and optimized condition.
How Do We Effectively Negotiate with Them?
But before we start negotiating with labor unions, it’s important to remember that negotiations and any known form of communication should be kept within company premises and with strict confidentiality.
While it may seem like taking this matter to court can help expedite the process, legal issues should be the last resort and should only be accepted if there are no more options available. If necessary, you might have to hire a reputable business litigation lawyer to help you with this scenario. Serious allegations coming from unions should be called out when necessary.
But other than that, it’s best to try to communicate with your employees and reach a middle-ground. So what are some good ways of negotiating with them?
Be Well-Meaning
Labor unions will often lead to skepticism in terms of how employers operate, especially in the workforce. One of the best ways of dispelling any rumors and misconceptions about you and your organization is by showing your group that you are well-meaning. If the union is asking for holidays and more overtime hours, then why not?
However, it’s still important that most members of the union are in the same boat in terms of their recognition agreement so that you can confirm what their representations of the agreement are.
Ultimately, being able to reach an agreement with a labor union can help make your company even more efficient.
Two-Way Communication
Sometimes, the best solution is in the spirit of cooperating with the other party. When you’re planning on working with the union’s terms, it’s easier to secure an agreement. If certain parameters cannot be met, then you can simply explain to them the mechanics of why it can’t be completed. It’s also important to listen to the side of the other party.
Still, it’s important to compromise and always be able to meet your business’s objectives and goals.
Understand What the Case Is
Lastly, it’s essential to be prepared for any known scenario. When an employer is well-prepared on these matters, it’s easier to mount a counter-argument, especially when you have clear and robust evidence on the subject.
Consider how their objectives can be met and what are some consequences if they are not met. It’s essential to be also receptive to any new information throughout the negotiation process.
It’s important not to forget about your employees who are not part of any labor union. As much as you want to focus on ensuring that your company will have a good reputation, it’s still important to keep your employees happy and satisfied. Giving everyone equal amounts of attention and care can ensure that no future unions will be formed.
Although it might take a few weeks to months to solve some issues and come to a middle ground with the labor union, getting a get to a mutual agreement with unions can calm down any form of tension that might arise in your organization. After all, being in a business means that all elements will need to work together to get the job done. Everyone in the organization will need to be in an optimal condition so that everyone can deliver their tasks in a timely and professional manner.