Employee Relations 04 Lecture Slides.pptx

The Actors in Employment Relations

1. The Actors in Employment Relations EMPLOYEE RELATIONS DR EBENEZER ODURO ANTIRI

2. The term actors in employment relations was proposed by John Dunlop’s Industrial Relations Systems (1958). He proposed that three parties playing a major role in industrial relations are employers, labor unions, and government. These are the key actors in a modern industrial relations system. Introduction THE ACTORS IN EMPLOYMENT RELATIONS

3. Traditionally, industrial relations was the concern of ensuring good sound relationships between the employer and employees. The three principal actors are: Workers and their unions Employers The government. Introduction THE ACTORS IN EMPLOYMENT RELATIONS

4. Workers are at the heart of any organization, serving as its lifeblood and driving force. They bring their skills, dedication, and effort to contribute to the organization's goals and objectives. The relationship between workers and employers forms the foundation of employment relations. Workers and their Unions THE ACTORS IN EMPLOYMENT RELATIONS

5. A labor union, often referred to as a trade union, is an organized association of workers who join together to advance their common interests and achieve goals related to employment and working conditions. These are usually common in the pluralist perpective of employment relations. Unions WORKERS AND THEIR UNIONS

6. Collective Bargaining : One of the most important functions of unions is collective bargaining. Unions negotiate on behalf of workers with employers to establish employment terms. Advocacy for Workers' Rights : Unions act as advocates for workers' rights, ensuring that employees are treated fairly and equitably. They champion issues such as workplace safety, anti-discrimination measures, and protection against unfair labor practices. Role of Unions WORKERS AND THEIR UNIONS

7. Voice and Representation: Unions provide workers with a collective voice, allowing them to express concerns and grievances as a group. This collective representation often gives workers more leverage when addressing workplace issues compared to individual efforts. Training and Development : Many unions offer training programs, skill development initiatives, and educational opportunities to their members. This helps empower workers and enhance their employability. Role of Unions WORKERS AND THEIR UNIONS

8. Political and Social Engagement: Unions often participate in broader social and political issues that impact workers' lives. They may advocate for policy changes related to labor laws, healthcare, social security, and other matters that affect the working class. Role of Unions WORKERS AND THEIR UNIONS

9. Collective Action Dilemma: Getting all workers to agree on common goals and actions can be challenging, especially in larger organizations with diverse workforce interests. Industrial Disputes: Strikes and other forms of industrial action can disrupt operations and lead to conflicts between unions and employers. Challenges with Unions WORKERS AND THEIR UNIONS

10. Globalization and Changing Nature of Work: With the rise of technology and globalization, the nature of work has evolved. Unions must adapt to these changes and find ways to represent workers in new work arrangements such as freelancing and the gig economy. Challenges with Unions WORKERS AND THEIR UNIONS

11. Employers are individuals or entities that own, manage, or control a business or organization and are responsible for its overall operations. Employers are the driving force behind organizations, responsible for setting the direction, vision, and goals that shape the work environment. They provide the resources, leadership, and infrastructure necessary for businesses to function and thrive. The Employer THE ACTORS IN EMPLOYMENT RELATIONS

12. Strategic Decision-Making: Employers set the strategic direction of the organization, making decisions related to business goals, growth strategies, and market positioning. These decisions shape the workforce requirements and overall work environment. Employment Policies and Practices: Employers establish employment policies, procedures, and practices that govern aspects such as hiring, promotion, compensation, benefits, and performance evaluation. Role of Employers THE EMPLOYER

13. Investment in Workforce: Employers invest in employee training, development, and skill enhancement to enhance productivity and contribute to the growth of the organization. Legal Compliance: Employers ensure compliance with labor laws, regulations, and industry standards. They play a critical role in maintaining fair employment practices and upholding workers' rights. Role of Employers THE EMPLOYER

14. Workplace Culture: Employers create the organizational culture that influences employee behavior, values, and attitudes. A positive workplace culture fosters employee engagement, satisfaction, and productivity. Role of Employers THE EMPLOYER

15. Balancing Profitability and Well-being: Striking a balance between maximizing profits and ensuring the well-being of employees can be a complex challenge. Conflict Management: Handling conflicts and disagreements between workers and management is an ongoing challenge. Effective conflict resolution strategies are essential to maintaining a harmonious work environment. Challenges of the Employer as an Actor THE EMPLOYER

16. Adapting to Change: Employers must adapt to changes in technology, market dynamics, and workforce trends. They need to be flexible in responding to new challenges and opportunities. Diversity and Inclusion: Creating an inclusive workplace that values diversity can be challenging. Employers must actively promote diversity and ensure equal opportunities for all employees. Challenges of the Employer as an Actor THE EMPLOYER

17. Government entities play a crucial role in employment relations by establishing the legal framework within which employers and workers interact. Through legislation and regulatory measures, governments aim to strike a balance between the interests of employers and employees, ensuring that workers are protected, workplaces are safe, and labor markets operate fairly. The Government THE ACTORS IN EMPLOYMENT RELATIONS

18. Labor Laws and Regulations: Governments create and enforce labor laws that set the parameters for employment relationships. These laws cover aspects such as minimum wage, working hours, overtime pay, workplace safety, and protection against discrimination. Collective Bargaining Regulations: Governments often establish rules and regulations governing the process of collective bargaining between unions and employers. Role of the Government THE GOVERNMENT

19. Social Protection Programs: Governments implement social protection programs such as unemployment benefits, healthcare, and retirement plans to provide a safety net for workers in times of need. Equal Employment Opportunities: Governments promote equal employment opportunities by enacting anti-discrimination laws and policies that prevent bias based on factors such as gender, race, religion, and disability. Role of the Government THE GOVERNMENT

20. Workplace Inspections and Compliance: Regulatory agencies monitor workplaces to ensure compliance with labor laws and safety standards, safeguarding the well-being of employees Role of the Government THE GOVERNMENT

21. Balancing Stakeholder Interests: Governments must balance the interests of employers, workers, and broader societal goals, which can sometimes lead to complex policy decisions. Enforcement Challenges: Ensuring widespread compliance with labor laws can be challenging, particularly in informal sectors and industries with limited oversight. Challenges of Government as an actor THE GOVERNMENT

22. Changing Labor Market Dynamics: Governments need to adapt to evolving labor market trends, such as the gig economy and remote work, which may require updates to existing regulations. Resource Constraints: Adequate funding and resources are necessary to effectively enforce labor laws and provide essential social protection programs. Challenges of Government as an actor THE GOVERNMENT

23. Which actor would you like to be ? Thanks!