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When it comes to working for a union, having effective communication between HR leaders and union representatives is key to developing a positive workplace environment. Through an understanding of union members’ perspectives and concerns, HR can build a foundation of trust and mutual respect that is beneficial to all those involved.
Below, Forbes Human Resources Council members explore strategies for HR leaders to improve their communication skills with union representatives. They also look at successful examples from a range of industries where improved communication has led to positive outcomes for both employees and management.
1. Talk And Listen To One Another
Having worked for unions and management, the most important way to communicate with union reps is just that—communicate. Communication requires that people don't just "hear" what the other is saying, but be active listeners, be responsive and be authentic. If you cannot provide an answer, explain why or provide a time frame to reconvene. Recognize and respect people, and be a good human. - Ilyssa DeCasperis, LA County Metro
2. Be Open To Collaboration
HR leaders can best engage unions with transparency, active listening and collaboration. Successful negotiations on fair wages, working conditions or dispute resolution build trust and boost productivity, fostering stronger partnerships. While it can’t be done overnight, the healthy dynamic between unions and HR can be priceless. - William Stonehouse, Crawford Thomas Recruiting
3. Practice Honesty And Transparency
As a teen, I worked for a company where the union berated the line and HR leaders, and then told them out of employees' earshot, "You know it's just for show, so they can cool off." That was not okay for the employees or the leaders, and I had no problem saying that to them all. Be transparent and honest behind open and closed doors—work together for the employees. The them versus us game is dead. - Nakisha Dixon, Vercara
4. Bridge Understanding Through Neutral Facilitators
Utilize neutral facilitators to help bridge gaps in understanding. This will ensure that both sides are heard and understood. - Britton Bloch, Navy Federal
5. Have A Say In Contracting
Get involved in negotiating the contract. Doing so allows HR to show union leaders that mutual (union and co) interest in supporting employees’ needs and desires is of utmost importance. This builds an initial foundation of trust and respect making subsequent interactions less adversarial, especially when disagreement between company leadership and union officials ensues. The 2020 NYCTA-TWU is an example. - Laci Loew
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6. Act As Partners
Having been in a union and an HR leader in a unionized environment, and serving on a Civil Service Board, the number one thing HR can do to improve the relationship is to reduce friction. Think of yourselves as partners in the employee's career, and do your best to work with the union rep to have the right processes in place. You all want the same thing; a great place for members to thrive! - Tracy Cote, StockX
7. Hold Joint Sessions
Organize regular joint sessions that focus on future trends impacting the industry, such as automation, globalization and new employment models. By exploring future challenges together, HR and union leaders can collaboratively strategize on adapting and thriving. This approach shifts the dynamic from adversarial to cooperative, leading to more productive outcomes. - Katrina Jones
8. Respect One Anothers’ Perspectives
HR leaders should be transparent and respectful and understand union representatives' perspectives to communicate better with them. Establishing a good relationship, listening to their feedback and working collaboratively to address their concerns can improve outcomes. When a company's HR leader meets regularly with union representatives, this leads to improved employee morale and productivity. - Reema Akhtar, Seer Solutions
9. Make Communication A Regular Thing
Michigan HR leaders can enhance communication with union reps by embracing transparency and regular dialogue. An example: A Detroit manufacturing firm held quarterly meetings with union leaders, discussing concerns openly. This led to a negotiated agreement that improved worker benefits and productivity, boosting company morale and operational efficiency. - CJ Eason, JobFairGiant.com
10. Learn From Those Around You
Effective communication between HR leaders and union representatives is paramount to cultivating a positive and productive work environment. By implementing strategic communication practices and learning from real-world examples, HR leaders can significantly enhance their interactions with union representatives, leading to improved collaboration, trust and outcomes for all stakeholders. - Jessica Kriegel, Culture Partners
