Successful collective bargaining can improve productivity in workplaces because it can build workplace relationships and it is a cost effective way of determining employment conditions. Bargaining also provides a channel for exchanging ideas, promoting parties’ common interests, and managing separate interests effectively.
Collective agreements capture the terms and conditions of employment for workers. They are also a reflection of an organisation’s approach to employment relations and its business strategies.
Relationships are at the heart of collective bargaining and preparation is a key to a successful outcome. Ensuring the relationships function effectively means ensuring you focus on the process of bargaining.
One way to prepare for bargaining is to give thought to a strategy for bargaining. Consider an environmental analysis: