Labor Relations Paper

Essay by sb5350University, Bachelor'sA+, August 2006

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Introduction

Labor relations as defined in the text is the field that emphasizes the skills managers and union leaders can use to minimize costly forms of conflicts (such as strikes) and seek win-win solutions to disagreements (Noe, Hollenbeck, Gerhert, Wright, 2003, p 442). Unions are defined in the text as organizations formed for the purpose of representing their members' interest in dealing with employees (Noe, et al, 2003, p 441). In this paper, I will identify how unions and labor relations impact organizations. I will also examine the impact of changes in employee relations strategies, policies and practices on organizational performance.

Union Organizing

The Campaign

Unions begin their involvement with an organization's employees by conducting a campaign simply known as an organizing campaign. Representatives of the union attempt to convince a majority of workers that they should receive better pay or other employment benefits. In voting in an organized union, the union will help them achieve better pay and/or other employment benefits.

(Noe, et al, 2003, p 456).

The Election

Excluded from voting for a union are management and independent contractors of the company. A ballot is distributed to each eligible employee and the votes are verified by a member of the National Labor Relations Board. If a union is voted in, it then is certified and contract negotiations can begin.

Contract Negotiations

Contract negotiations in a union setting involve decisions about pay structure, job security, work rules, workplace safety, and many other issues. These decisions affect workers' and the employer's situation for the term of the contract" (Noe, et al, 2003, p 460). Negotiations are held between employees represented by the union and management of the organization usually represented by Human Resources.

Grievance Handling

There are many steps in grievance handling. Richard D. Irwin, 1980 has outlined the following...