HRM-7003 v4: Labor Relations
Week 6
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Union Bargaining
Last week, you examined the role of HR, including negotiation. Without HR’s ability to negotiate, there would be many more challenges to a unionized organization than benefits. Bargaining occurs when two parties negotiate to achieve a common goal, and it is key to successfully operate a unionized organization. An excellent example of this is when employees want a pay raise for a certain amount, but management has different ideas. If the two parties bargain and everything goes well, each party walks away happy. If things do not go well, a different course of action can occur; for instance, the employees could strike. Strikes typically occur when both sides can’t reach a deal. Strikes include a refusal to work and can last indefinitely. There must be give and take. One group cannot receive more benefits than another.
This week, you will describe the purpose and importance of bargaining in a union. A lot goes into bargaining. But what specifically? What are the critical elements of negotiation? How can one effectively bargain in a unionized organization? This week’s assignment requires you to prepare a white paper where you will stress the importance of this essential skill for your HR colleagues.
Preparing a White Paper
A white paper is an authoritative, informative guide or report that aims to identify a problem, propose a solution, or assist in decision-making. In short, the purpose of a white paper is to inform and persuade. The intended audience of a white paper could be the general public or possibly an organization or group of organizations looking to address needs or find solutions to problems. The author’s main goal again is to be persuasive and to ensure they address the needs of their audience.
The content of a white paper should include the following basic elements:
• A compelling introduction – This is where you present the problem and summarize your solution succinctly in a paragraph or two.
• The problem or description of the opportunity – In this area, offer details to support your description with solid, factual evidence.
• A baseline solution to the problem – In this section, present your solution as the best possible response.
• A conclusion – In this area, state the problem and present your approach to understanding or solving the issue.
When it comes to formatting a white paper, there is no right or wrong way, nor is there any single method or approach. You may want to create an outline before you begin writing to assist in the clear flow of your white paper. A white paper may or may not feature a title page and abstract. You also may wish to include images, charts, graphs, and other figures to support your claims and capture your audience’s attention. Remember, the overall goal is to be persuasive, informative, and call your audience to action.
Weekly Resources and Assignments
Week 6 Resources
• Relationship Between Leverage and the Bargaining Power of Labor Unions: Evidence from Theoretical and Empirical Perspectives
Choi, C. S., Sohn, P.,