The employees at your organization have formed a union, and the bargaining process now begins. Write a case study in which you analyze the situation. First, begin with background information about the negotiation, and make certain to address the areas below.
Identify the state where the organization is located. Is the state a right-to-work state? If yes, explain what this means. If no, explain what this means. Why are the employees deciding to unionize? What are the mandatory bargaining subjects? Other than wages and hours, what are five other terms and conditions of employment? What are permissive bargaining subjects that will be negotiated? List at least five.
Second, you need to select members of your bargaining team. You will select four supervisors who were identified in the Unit VI Lesson. Discuss why you selected each supervisor, and compare/contrast their conflict management styles. Each supervisor must have a different conflict style. Explain how each supervisor can contribute to conflict resolution strategies used during negotiation.
Third, explain the two collective bargaining strategies, and identify which one you will recommend your team to use. Explain and support your rationale.
Finally, what will you propose happens if a labor management agreement is not reached by your team and the employee representatives?
Sample Solution
The organization is located in the state of California, which is not a right-to-work state. This means that employees do have the legal right to form a union and engage in collective bargaining negotiations with their employers. The employees are deciding to unionize as a way to gain better job security, fair wages, and improved working conditions.
Mandatory Bargaining Subjects: Wages, Hours, Grievances & Discipline Procedures, Health & Safety Issues, Benefits (Vacation Time, Sick Leave)
Permissive Bargaining Subjects: Retirement Plans & Pension Funds; Job Security Provisions; Seniority Rights; Transfer & Promotion Procedures; Work Schedules & Flexible Work Arrangements
Conflict Management Styles: Competing – This style involves individuals taking an assertive stance on their beliefs while trying to get what they want out of negotiation without caring about the other parties’ feelings or interests. Collaborating – This style involves both parties coming together in order to work towards mutual understanding and agreement by addressing both needs of each party
Sample Solution
The organization is located in the state of California, which is not a right-to-work state. This means that employees do have the legal right to form a union and engage in collective bargaining negotiations with their employers. The employees are deciding to unionize as a way to gain better job security, fair wages, and improved working conditions.
Mandatory Bargaining Subjects: Wages, Hours, Grievances & Discipline Procedures, Health & Safety Issues, Benefits (Vacation Time, Sick Leave)
Permissive Bargaining Subjects: Retirement Plans & Pension Funds; Job Security Provisions; Seniority Rights; Transfer & Promotion Procedures; Work Schedules & Flexible Work Arrangements
Conflict Management Styles: Competing – This style involves individuals taking an assertive stance on their beliefs while trying to get what they want out of negotiation without caring about the other parties’ feelings or interests. Collaborating – This style involves both parties coming together in order to work towards mutual understanding and agreement by addressing both needs of each party
