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The key to good workplace relations |
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01 December 2010 |
With public sector spending cuts significantly raising the risk of strikes in several key service areas, many private employers are also considering the best ways to prevent their own employees from taking action in the face of possible job losses and pay freezes.
With public sector spending cuts significantly raising the risk of strikes in several key service areas, many private employers are also considering the best ways to prevent their own employees from taking action in the face of possible job losses and pay freezes.
The best available advice involves creating strong, open relationships with employees and any unions that may represent them. Always be willing to discuss any issues they may have, and pay close attention to what they have to say. Be responsive to particular issues, and be prepared to make certain small concessions while defending your position on the business-critical ones.
Be sure to understand and clearly state management's position with a willingness to discuss it in detail. Constantly keep the lines of communication open, and be sure that you can honour any promises made in good faith.
Without making threats, also be sure to point out the downside of taking strike action, including damaged future relationships and the potential for serious effects on the business that may have to result in job losses.
If you feel that you need expert help in repairing employee relations or that a strike appears to be inevitable, take advice on your legal position from an experienced employment lawyer.
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