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Good Industrial Relations

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Submitted By TCONRAD
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Industrial relations is a post-industrial revolution term that replaced the expression "master-servant" used to define the relationship between a worker and an employer. Contemporary industrial relations still refers to the employment relationship and the business unit that manages the employment relations, personnel or human resources. It often includes labor unions as parties to that relationship.
The main objective of industrial relations is to improve the economic conditions of workers in the current economic climate. The value added outcomes that can result from good industrial relations include improved morale and commitment, fewer grievances, productivity increases, and better control of labour costs. (Waiganjo, 2012) However there are three theories on how this can be obtained: unitarism, pluralist and radical perspectives. Each of these perspectives takes a different approach to the workplace and the roles of the parties involved; but not all will be effective in today’s evolving labour market.

If you want to make peace with your enemy, you have to work
With your enemy. Then he becomes your partner. - Nelson Mandela

The unitarist approach to industrial relations is one of mutual benefit; the management and other members of staff are presumed to share a common purpose emphasizing mutual cooperation. (Waiganjo, 2012) This approach to working relationship promotes the virtues of teamwork, where everyone strives to reach a common objective. Many Canadians take a unitarist view point when it comes to the employment contract. An employee comes into the workplace to do an employer’s wok and the employer’s agenda is the one that matters. (Foster and Barnetson, 2012, Unit 2, Lesson 6)
For the employee, Unitarism means the workplace should be flexible. Individuals should be business process improvement oriented, multi-skilled and ready to tackle

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