Grievances and Dispute Resolution in the Workplace

Question
The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) of 1935 was established to help protect the rights of employees and employers, encourage collective bargaining, and discourage harmful labor and management practices. It also created the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). When employees work at a unionized company, the union negotiates for wages, hours, and other workplace factors. However, if an employee or group of employees finds that their company is not following parts of the collective bargaining agreement, they can file a grievance. In your assignment, please answer the following questions:
Based upon your experience or recent research, what are some examples of grievances?
If you had to report a grievance to the NLRB, what steps would you take?
Using recent examples, what are the differences between mediation and arbitration?
If you were a human resources (HR) professional, what strategies would you recommend the company take to create a work climate where disputes could be resolved and grievances are a last resort?

Answer
1. Introduction
The purpose of this essay is to explore the management of disputes and grievances in the workplace. Disputes and grievances are a common aspect of employment and can arise for a variety of reasons. They can have an extremely damaging effect on both the individual and company level, causing an increase in absenteeism, a drop in productivity, and a rapid staff turnover. They can also be a source of stress and anxiety, with both physical and psychological effects. Research suggests that managers spend a considerable amount of time dealing with dissatisfied employees, with as much as 25-40% of supervisory time being used to address employee grievances. In light of these effects and the high costs associated with employee dissatisfaction, it is evident that grievance and dispute resolution is a matter worth addressing. An effective dispute management system can lead to a reduction in the number of disputes that arise, and if they do arise, it can channel the negative energy usually fostered in the dispute to a more constructive outlet.
2. Examples of Grievances
2.1. Wage Disputes
2.2. Discrimination Complaints
2.3. Unsafe Working Conditions
2.4. Violation of Employment Contracts
3. Reporting a Grievance to the NLRB
3.1. Gathering Evidence
3.2. Filing the Grievance
3.3. NLRB Investigation Process
3.4. Resolving the Grievance
4. Mediation vs. Arbitration
4.1. Definition and Purpose
4.2. Mediation Process
4.3. Arbitration Process
4.4. Recent Examples of Mediation and Arbitration Cases
5. Strategies for Creating a Positive Work Climate
5.1. Effective Communication Channels
5.2. Conflict Resolution Training
5.3. Employee Feedback Mechanisms
5.4. Fair and Transparent Policies
5.5. Encouraging Collaboration and Teamwork
5.6. Leadership Support and Involvement
5.7. Continuous Improvement Initiatives