IMPORTANCE OF UNION STRIKE METHODS

Some union strike methods have been shown to be more effective than others, based on trial and error. Other union strike methods have been defined by Federal labor laws as illegal. Unionists will want to know the best methods for winning the strike. Management will want to know labor tactics as well, to know what to anticipate and how to respond.

Legality

• Arguably, the most important aspect of a union strike method is its legality. Unions can be prosecuted under Racketeering Influenced and Corrupt Organization (RICO) laws for engaging in methods that violate federal law. Illegal actions include secondary boycotts, where unions at work refuse to handle goods from an employer engaged in a labor dispute. Intimidation of any kind is also illegal, so it's wise to be on your best behavior when you're on the picket line -- and looking out for intimidation from the other side as well.

Solidarity

• Maintaining solidarity among the ranks is another union strike method. This generally refers to morale among the strikers. The strike simply won't work if disgruntled unionists return to work before a contract settlement is reached. For example, management can undermine solidarity by offering a better deal to some workers than others. However, solidarity can be maintained by keeping communication between labor and its representatives open. A good strike fund helps keep workers from returning to work out of financial necessity.

Effectiveness

• It's important that whatever strike methods are used, are effective. Maintaining a strong picket line conveys the message to management that the union means business. Conversely, a sparse picket line shows a lack of support for the union's contract. The union should also have a crack team of lawyers ready to do hard negotiating at the table -- the bosses certainly will.

Public Relations

Unions and businesses in labor disputes also fight for the public's opinion. Customers who need products from a grocery store, and citizens needing essential services, may not care much about who wins the dispute -- they just want things to return to business as usual. Unions may consider providing some services to the public while on strike, or even engaging in fundraising activities for the community at large to maintain a positive public profile. Both sides would do well to issue regular press releases.

References

• PR Week: Communications Workers Union (CWU) Defends Strike Tactics
• US Law: Employee Lawsuits: Discouraging Union Organizers
• Chest of Books: The Methods Of Trade-Unions
• Legal Dictionary: Secondary Boycott

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