Collective Bargaining in America: Strategies and Outcomes
Collective Bargaining in America: Strategies and Outcomes Introduction to Collective Bargaining Collective bargaining is a crucial process in labor relations, where employers and unions negotiate terms of employment. This process aims to balance the power dynamics between employers and employees, ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and other benefits. In the United States, collective bargaining is primarily governed by the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), which establishes the rights of employees to form unions and engage in collective bargaining. Key Strategies for Effective Collective Bargaining 1. Preparation and Research Effective collective bargaining begins with thorough preparation. Both parties must gather relevant data, understand the economic landscape, and identify their priorities and limits. Example: The United Auto Workers (UAW) and General Motors (GM) negotiations in 2019. The UAW conducted extensive research on GM's financial status, production costs