To our Clients & Friends

Written by Stephen Cabot

To our clients and friends, 

With 2010 now well under way (and the Institute proudly marking its fifth anniversary), this seems an appropriate moment to offer a snapshot of the labor-employment landscape, as well as our plans to provide ongoing support for employers focused on flourishing in what has turned out to be one of the most challenging economic periods in my lifetime.   

Despite Scott Brown’s stunning Senate win in Massachusetts, the evidence is clear that the President and his huge majorities in Congress will continue their drive to reconfigure this country on a foundational level.  The magnitude of their programs has been stunning, and the haste with which these actions are being taken is shocking.  “Change” doesn’t begin to describe it. 

But with healthcare and economic issues grabbing the headlines, it may seem as if Organized Labor’s agenda has gotten sidetracked.  Believe me, nothing could be further from the truth.  Led by Andy Stern, SEIU’s controversial president and frequent White House guest, union leaders have been pressuring Congressional allies for passage of the Employee Free Choice Act and other prized labor initiatives before the fall elections.  And make no mistake:  they have the votes to make it happen. 

Are you prepared? Have you taken steps to union-proof your organization?  If you already have a union, have you put in place policies to retain and protect appropriate management prerogatives and to ensure a productive, harmonious workplace? Have you surveyed your workers to see where you stand? There is no time to lose! 

Our Spring 2010 Labor Strategy Survival Seminar will focus on the key issues and opportunities facing employers in both union and nonunion settings, and will offer effective tactics and tools tailored specifically for today’s challenges.  You will be receiving a comprehensive brochure in about 60 days, but I encourage you to mark your calendar now:  Philadelphia, June 9-10; Cleveland, June 16-17; andPittsburgh, June 23-24. 

Naturally, if there is any way we can be helpful in the meantime, just give us a call. And be sure to check out video clips of recent seminars by visiting our YouTube site: http://www.youtube.com/user/stephencabot.