What is the significance of understanding the employment relationship as a manager? You will need to show your understanding of the employment relationship and apply its relevance to your role as manager.
1. Introduction.
Figure 1: Main parties of the employment relations.
Employment relationship is a new term that broadens the study of industrial relationships, referring to the formal and informal interrelationships between managers and workers. As shown by figure 1, there are different perspectives involved, which will inherently provide ample scope for conflicts to arise.
The basis of the employment relationship is one of divergent interests; therefore conflict is inevitable at the workplace. In the process of obtaining the desired values, one party may attempt to neutralize it's oppositions. Nevertheless, there can also be substantial amount of common interests, which can be turned to mutual advantage.
2. Communication .
Communication is a two-way process allowing for a mutual interchange of ideas, feelings and opinions. Thus provisions should be made for upwards as well as downward communication. Communication is very important as it keeps employees informed about general matters affecting their work-role. It increases the understanding of management's actions, reduces misunderstanding arising from daily activity and improves trust between employers and employees. .
Written methods are ideal as it is less liable to misinterpretation by providing detailed visible information. It includes newssheets, discussion documents, and leaflets in pay packets, posters and booklets. The employee's handbook is a particular important mean, as it contains useful information about conditions of employment, rules and procedures. .
Oral methods are best for communicating about views and exchanges, which may arouse strong feelings or anxieties. Work-team briefing groups, meetings or quality circles are very useful means.
