Managing through a strike
Public spending cuts could lead to a showdown between unions and the government. For managers caught in the middle, Martin Addison of Video Arts writes in The Guardian, offering some advice on how to cope in the event of industrial action.
Episodes of industrial action are currently making headlines and there are fears that the sheer scale of cuts from the coalition government's spending review could unleash a period of unrest and coordinated strike action in the public sector.
Any manager who has to deal with the stresses, conflict situations, dilemmas and confused loyalties that can arise in a strike will find the experience incredibly challenging.
The following guidelines may help:
1. Know the rules. As a manager, you don't have to be an expert in employment law but you do need to know what's expected of you and where the lines are drawn. Always keep your 'end game' goal in mind: that is to facilitate a smooth return to work when the strike is over.
2. Keep your lines of communication open. Any decision to strike can divide the workforce: some will support the action; others will oppose it. Meet with your team and ask them to remain professional. Allow them to air their views and address any concerns promptly. Ensure you keep in regular contact with your staff and your senior managers.
3. Be assertive, not aggressive. Anything that happens during the strike is likely to taint the atmosphere when everyone returns to work. Try to avoid conflict and confrontation. At all times, you have to see it as a professional dispute and not personal.
4. Set an example to restore relationships. When the strike ends and people return to work, there may be some lingering animosity. As the manager, you have to try to calm the situation and get the team to work together to resolve any ongoing issues. Set the example by role modelling the behaviours you want to see in others. Tackle any grievances quickly and professionally. Be clear and fair with any disciplinary action.
State retrenchment is now a reality. The implications for industrial action remain to be seen. However, public sector organisations should ensure that their managers are fully equipped to cope in the event of a strike situation.
