With a new administration and  Democratic majorities in both the House and Senate the likelihood of the passage of the Employee Freedom of Choice Act (EFCA) looks very strong.

EFCA is designed to make it easier for  unions to organize workers in American companies.  Among its provision is one that would eliminate the need for a secret ballot election among workers.  Instead unions will be certified if more than 50% of the workforce signs cards indicating that they want the union to represent them.

What does this mean for American companies?  Obviously they are more likely to see union organizing activity than in the past. And their ability to stay union free will be severely tested.

No longer will companies be able to rely on a vigorous election campaign to stop the union form being certified.

So what can companies do?  Obviously they must create an environment in which their employees see no need for representation.

Many experts say that the most important thing any company must do is to have in place an effective dispute resolution system.

Employees need to know that their problems, concerns, and grievances are being dealt with in a fair and timely manner.

In the absence of this employees will be much more likely to turn to unions to help them achieve fair treatment from management.

For over twenty years Caras & Associates, Inc. has been helping companies to implement Dispute Resolution Systems that benefit both employees and the company.