Learning through staff unionization
I created a body of work that seeded the Beyond Neutrality Project, where amazing practitioners are shaping a pro-union, anti-racist and mission-focused toolkit for unionization and labor-management relations. That collaboration expanded my own leadership by pushing me to coach and mentor other consultants in organizational development and capacity-building work related to collective bargaining. I’m proud of the framework and tools emerging from that collective effort.
What if the old ideas — unions versus bosses, bargaining as a fight where each side tries to win at any cost — aren’t true?
What could we do if we had the time, money, and creativity to find mutual interests and make plans that meet those needs over time?
What if bargaining was about imagining together and understanding how work feels from various seats and shoes?
What’s scary about having to share power with a bargaining unit? Who are the hopeful sisters of those fears?
What is possible if we can lead with our wisdom and values?
Drawing upon my experience from both viewpoints of the collective bargaining process, I can help you get out of "React" mode so that you can engage in the unionization of your staff in ways that are strategic and grounded in your values.
I can help you understand each phase of management work in embracing a staff union —beginning with recognition, through bargaining, and all the way to the implementation of your first contract. I will also help you identify and access the information and training resources you need to learn and successfully navigate the collective bargaining process.
My offerings include tailored strategies for engaging your management staff and aligning your management team around an approach to bargaining that works for your organization.