Collective bargaining free essay sample

Collective bargaining is concerned with the relations between employers acting through their management representatives and organized labour. It is concerned not only with the negotiation of a formal labour agreement but also with the day- to- day dealings between management and the union. Because the management of the people in so many organizations is closely intertwined with union- employer relationships, it is essential that the student and the practitioner of management develop a sound knowledge of collective bargaining. Furthermore, the effect of collective bargaining extends beyond these establishments that are unionized. It impacts upon the economy as a whole, upon the practices of non-union organisations and upon the society at large. Key Words: collective bargaining, negotiations, union-employer relationships. Introduction Collective bargaining according to Salamon (1957) is a method of determining terms and conditions of employment, which utilizes the process of negotiation and agreement between representatives of management and employees. It provides a formal channel through which the differing interests of management and employees may be resolved on a collective basis. We will write a custom essay sample on Collective bargaining or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Mulvey (1986) defines collective bargaining as a system based on selfdetermination with the contracting parties voluntarily assuming responsibility for reaching an agreement and honouring that agreement. According to International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention No. 98, by Nyman C (1981 p.4) , collective bargaining is seen as a voluntary negotiation between employers’ organizations and workers’ organizations with a view to regulating terms and conditions of employment by collective agreements. Elderly and retired employees Warren (1990) says that welfare for elderly employees is primarily to prepare them for retirement and dealing with any problems they have in coping with their work. Preparation for retirement is a valuable service that many firms offer. Some companies have made special provision for elderly employees by setting aside jobs or work areas for them. However, this has dangers. Treating employees as special cases ahead of their time makes them over-aware of their condition or too dependent on the services provided for them. Retired employees, particularly those with long service, deserve the continuing interest their former employer. The interest need not be oppressive, but continuing social occasions can be provided for them. Group welfare service Group welfare services mainly consist of sports and social clubs, although some companies still support various benevolent societies, which provide additional help and finance in times of need (Wickens, 1987). Heinrich (1959), states that a massive investment in sports facilities is usually of doubtful value unless there is nothing else in the neighborhood. Companies should be prepared to share its facilities with the local community. Facilities can be provided within the firm’s premises if they are needed and are readily available. An investment in special facilities should be made only if there is a real likelihood of their being used regularly by a large proportion of employees. This is an  area where prior consultation, before setting up the facility, and self- government, when it has been established, are essential. Conclusion It is however, increasingly being recognized that employee welfare is the  responsibility of line management and supervision. If the line managers take on their proper role as team leaders as they are close enough to each worker, they should be in a position to identify any personal problems affecting the work of their subordinates. They should be able to either counsel the employees or refer them to the counselling agencies.