Human resource managementLesson 4 of 4 in the course Managing Human Resources and Labor Relations

Labor Relations: Union Structure, Certification, and Contract Negotiation

5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 5 match pairs · 5 fill-in sentences · English

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Summary

This lesson introduces labor unions, the three phases of the labor relations process, and the structure of the modern labor movement. Understanding these ideas helps explain how workers organize and how unions interact with employers.

A labor union is an organization that represents workers in dealing with management over issues such as wages, hours, and working conditions. Unions have historically been prominent in mining, manufacturing, construction, and transportation. Union organizing has also expanded into service businesses, health care, and food and beverage companies.

All flashcards

What is a labor union?
An organization that represents workers in dealing with management over matters such as wages, hours, and working conditions.
What are the three phases of labor relations?
Union organizing, collective bargaining to negotiate an agreement, and administration of that agreement.
What is a local union?
A union branch that represents workers at a particular plant or in a defined geographic area.
Who is a shop steward?
An elected union official who represents members to management when workers have complaints.
What is a trade union federation?
A group of unions that cooperate on shared goals such as organizing, public relations, and political activity.

Quiz questions

  1. What is the central role of a labor union?Answer: To represent workers in dealings with management over workplace matters.
  2. How does a labor agreement become binding for its term?Answer: Top management approves it, and union members ratify it.
  3. Under an agency shop arrangement, what must employees do?Answer: Pay a fee for representation expenses, without having to join the union.
  4. In labor agreements, what does seniority refer to?Answer: An employee's length of service with the employer.
  5. What does a management rights clause generally do?Answer: Reserves management's authority except where the contract specifies otherwise.

Based on Introduction to Business 2e by Lawrence J. Gitman, Carl McDaniel, Amit Shah, Monique Reece, Linda Koffel, Bethann Talsma, James C. Hyatt (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.

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