Playing Smart changelabsolutions.org | kaboom.org 76 Some tips on establishing clear communication with unions: 1. Review and become familiar with the contracts that govern the rules under which union labor works. 2. Engage the union representatives early in the negotiating process. 3. Ensure that all relevant bargaining units are represented in negotiations. 4. Keep the unions updated and involved throughout the duration of the joint use agreement (especially when concerns arise and when the agreement is renewed or comes to an end). Presenting the joint use idea to the union at the beginning of the negotiation process increases the likelihood that union members will be on board and provides the union with the opportunity to contribute to the success of the agreement from the outset. Meetings with bargaining unit leadership should be scheduled as early in the negotiation process as possible. This gives all parties an opportunity to review plans for the joint use agreement in the context of the bargaining unit’s contract, and allows both sides to raise any concerns they may have about the agreement and its implementation. Different types of employees may be represented by different bargaining units (possibly even different unions), so be sure all relevant units and unions are invited to the initial meeting. In addition, each agency’s relationship with its bargaining unit is unique, so it is important to take into account whether meeting with unit leadership is adequate. If the relationship is such that it is usual or proper to bring in representation from the unit’s local union, the initial meeting is the time to do that. Make a plan for keeping unions informed, and stick to it. It may make sense to ensure that the unions are represented on the joint use task force or working group. Keep union representatives involved at every step of the process to eliminate any surprises (for instance, alerting them to modifications that arise during negotiations) and to ensure that all the stakeholders – within the union or the agency – have consistent information and adequate opportunities to respond to the joint use proposal. Once the joint use agreement is in place, have regular meetings with union representatives to ensure open communication and to evaluate how things are going.
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