Managing the Unionized Workforce

This interactive and experience-based program is appropriate for supervision and management, including those who have already managed in the unionized environment and those who are new to the role.

The program provides tools for handling situations that often arise in a unionized environment and customized elements to fit your organization’s needs. Modules include:

• a model for creating and maintaining a healthy relationship with the Union
• guidelines for building a productive and cooperative relationship with employees
• practical guidance on management’s role in contract administration and on specific terms of your organization’s labor contracts
• a model for effective performance management, discipline and discharge in a “just cause” system
• tools for successfully handling grievances and arbitration.

Participants in the program learn practical skills for managing their relationship with Union representatives and bargaining unit employees. A variety of interactive learning exercises include video-based scenarios drawn from our facilitators’ practical experience in representing unionized employers at the bargaining table, in defending grievances and arbitrations, in NLRB proceedings, and in advising day-to-day.

By providing managers and supervisors with the right tools, you can further your collective bargaining goals; minimize the time, disruption and cost of unnecessary grievances and unsuccessful arbitrations; and maintain the business flexibility and workforce cooperation necessary to succeed.

Managing the Unionized Workforce may be taught as a half-day, full-day, or two-day program, depending on the depth and skill-building practice desired. Our trainers can facilitate the program, train your internal staff as facilitators, or team-teach with your internal trainers.

As part of our Labor Relations Training, we also offer more specialized programs designed to assist companies in preparing for collective bargaining negotiations and defending arbitrations.