During his long and successful career of keeping unions out of the
workplace, a labor attorney continually reminded his clients and associates
that emotions follow a bell curve. If employees’ ill feelings toward management
build up slowly, they can only be brought down slowly. However, if there is a
sudden burst of anger among employees over an issue, the emotional climate can
be improved quickly – assuming the right actions are taken by management.
I’m certain the new shortened time
period between the filing of a unionization petition and an election would
greatly disturb the venerable attorney and focus much of his attention on
prevention of problems. The old adage an ounce of prevention is worth a pound
of cure still
holds true.
It all boils down to communication,
something too many of us push aside to make room for issues we deem as “more
important right now.” As we begin a new year, I hope you will make
communication between you and your employees a high priority, and reach out for
their input on what issues are of greatest concern to them. That’s always a
great starting point and prevents you from winding up behind the bell curve.
Take a look at our ounce of prevention list and let us know which flavor you
like.
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