Benefits of engaging with employees to avoid a strike

Strike action can be a costly issue for employers. The effects can be widespread and potentially long-lasting including but not limited to; damage to company reputation, loss of competitiveness, financial loss, and damage to relationship with employees. The recent and ongoing industrial dispute between Transdev (who operate the Luas service) and their employees has grabbed the widespread media attention due to the impact the dispute has had on a large number of commuters in Dublin. This in turn has brought about a public backlash against both the employees and the company not to mention a significant loss in revenue. So how can a business mitigate the risks of industrial action? There are some simple steps that can help lessen the impact of trade disputes;

• Communication – It is crucial to engage in constructive communications with employees regarding workplace changes. Employers should enter into this communication with an aim of finding a mutually beneficial outcome for both sides.
• Good faith – Both sides should enter into any negotiations with a realistic and transparent expectation of what they would like to achieve as an outcome. If both parties are honest and upfront in their demands it can facilitate smooth negotiations and mitigate the risk of action when difficulties arise. Both sides should be willing to make concessions on their demands with an aim to finding a long term workable solution.
• Attitude – An attitude that these negotiations represent a chance to solve a problem over a chance to win a battle may see the employees more likely to make concessions on their demands, as there will be a feeling that their requests are being reasonably considered.
• Grievance procedures – Having an effective grievance procedure can allow an employee to raise concerns that they may have. This affords an employer the opportunity to get in front of any potential issues before they escalate to a dispute.

Industrial disputes will arise from time to time the benefit of actively engaging with employees when they do arise is that it lessens the risk of strike action as employees will feel that their grievances are being addressed as a matter of importance. It can also bring about a positive outcome as issues are examined and resolved in a positive manner and through that the employment relationship can be strengthened as employees feel they have voiced concerns and have been listened to, this in turn can breed commitment and engagement. If you have any queries in respect of the above article then please contact our 24 Hour Advice Service on 01 855 50 50.