HOW TO PLAY HARDBALL WITH THE UNION
1.Employers who are entering into negotiations with a union for a new contract will be compelled by the union to bargain over handling increases in wages, health, pension and other benefits. The union will give you these increases in their proposal. Generally, unions want an employer to pick up all of the increases and the employers want the employees to share in the burden of the increased costs. Employers will need to consider various bargaining strategies to obtain a favorable contract, which may include a strike or lockout with your employees.
10 STEPS TO FOLLOW TO
NEGOTIATE A FAVORABLE CONTRACT
2.Prior to selecting a bargaining strategy, an employer must identify its goals. It is important to achieve more favorable economic terms, less restrictive language or both. An employer must also determine if it has the proper person sitting at the bargaining table on its behalf to obtain the best contract from the union. It is time to introduce a new face as the company spokesman to show the union that times are changing. In the next several pages there are 10 considerations that every employer must assess before it sits down to bargain with the union.
3.Closely review the non-economic terms of the labor agreement. A review of judicial and administrative rulings will help determine if there is a need to negotiate for changes in the contract language. Contractual provisions may have been modified or even nullified by the courts or the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).
4.Obtain the input of operating managers and line supervisors as to how they administer the labor agreement. Inquire about contractual provisions that hinder efficient operations. Often the best insights on the company’s bargaining position come from the front lines.
5.Schedule important deadlines. There may be adverse consequences for inaction on a number of important matters. For example, if the company is party to an agreement that was negotiated by a multi-employer bargaining group (i.e., association), the company must determine at the beginning of negotiations whether to negotiate as a part of the group or as an individual employer.
6.Assess the level of support for the union among the workforce by speaking with the line supervisors. Knowing whether employees will support a union and its proposals at the bargaining table will help assess what an employer needs to propose to reach a contract.
7.Construct a financial model that computes the specific cost components. This step is essential so negotiators can accurately report the cost associated with the company’s and the union’s proposals. This action is vital in determining the priority of any bargaining goals and objectives.
8.Anticipate bargaining issues regarding fringe benefits and alternatives. Plans should be reviewed as to coverage, usage and anticipated cost increases. Investigate the financial status of any Taft-Hartley plans to which contributions are made, as well as the amount of vested unfunded liabilities. Review the rights and obligations of the company as well as plan trustees in constructing the company’s position in the upcoming negotiations.
9A.Know your adversary. Use contacts in the “labor arena” to learn about the union and its officers. Is the local union supported by the International union? Are the current officers up for re-election in the near term? Is there strife among the officers, more than one of which may be sitting at the bargaining table? This information may help identify any intra-union pressures weighing on a union negotiator that may facilitate or hinder attempts to reach a deal.
9B.Determine if the union is negotiating other contracts in the industry at the same time because the results of those negotiations could affect the company’s negotiations.
9C.Assess the bargaining strengths and weaknesses of the union and the company.
10.Engage in contingency planning. In the event differences cannot be resolved, strike contingency planning is a vital adjunct to the issues that must be considered before bargaining begins. Contingency planning includes all aspects of ensuring that the operations continue in the event of a stoppage.
11.If your firm needs any assistance in negotiating a favorable contract or to go nonunion or any other labor relations issue, please call H. Sanford Rudnick JD of H. Sanford Rudnick & Associates or any other labor issue, please call 1-800-326-3046 or sandy@rudnickpro.com 24/7.
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Fundamentals of Labor Law Regarding Unions
Written by H. Sanford Rudnick,JD "Fundamentals of Labor Law Regarding Unions" is a practical guide to the principles of labor law, union relations, and proceedings before the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). Drawing on decades of experience representing employers, the book provides valuable insight into collective bargaining, union elections, labor disputes, and employer rights and responsibilities.
The book is included in the Harvard Law School Library collection and other law school libraries across the United States, reflecting its value as a respected educational resource for students, attorneys, and business professionals.
Whether you are an employer, executive, HR professional, or business owner seeking a better understanding of labor law, this book offers a practical foundation for navigating today's complex labor relations landscape.
To order your copy for $29.95, please call 1-800-326-3046.
We're Here to Help
Navigating labor and employment issues can be challenging, but you don't have to face them alone. Whether you're dealing with a union election, collective bargaining, an unfair labor practice, pension liability, or another labor or human resources matter, my team and I are here to provide practical guidance and experienced representation.
If you have questions or would like to discuss your situation, I invite you to contact me for a confidential consultation. We'll take the time to understand your concerns, explain your options, and help you determine the best path forward.
I look forward to speaking with you.
H. Sanford Rudnick, J.D.
Union & Labor Law Expert
1-800-326-3046
(925) 352-7900
sandy@rudnickpro.com

UNION & LABOR LAW ATTORNEY FOR EMPLOYERS
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H. Sanford Rudnick and Associates
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