This nuts-and-bolts handbook tells you the tools and tactics that set the most effective locals apart from the rest. The author gives you specific instructions on bargaining for pay, fringes, and other terms and conditions of employment. Summaries and checklists guide you through the process smoothly as you learn to: -- recognize strengths and weaknesses -- find your best strike and no-strike alternatives -- avoid impasse -- use third-party mediation, and more Coverage includes both traditional and win-win negotiations in union-employer situations ranging from manufacturing to the retail, service, and local government sectors. Whether you are on the bargaining committee for the first time or have years of experience, you will gain from the author's no-nonsense approach to efficient organization, planning, and negotiation.

Labor negotiation is like no other negotiation. This book tells you how to plan your strategy, approach difficult topics, and conclude successfully. In step-by-step chapters, the author tells you how to prepare the management team, present your agenda, cost out demands and offers, draft contract language, and more. You get important background facts on negotiating health and welfare benefits, pension plans, and other volatile issues. Plus, the book includes successful approaches for negotiating joint union-management programs such as stock-option plans and gainsharing. The author explains the law with real-life examples to guide you to a cooperative, mutually beneficial agreement.