The importance of transparency and trust in the relationship between companies and unions

As an employer, it is important to know how to react and maintain a climate of trust with your company's union or unions. It is reasonable and understandable to be concerned; however, it is in your power to create a climate of respect by following a few simple recommendations.

Maintain open communication

It is essential that the company adequately reports on developments—both good and bad—that occur within the company. Although your company must submit an annual balance sheet to the union, we recommend that this information be provided much more regularly in order to maintain close ties with our employees. 

For large companies, legislation requires the company to submit annual balance sheets, audited financial statements, and all public information that may be necessary in a negotiation.

In the case of small companies, they are required to submit the corresponding payroll records of union members to the union's leadership, in addition to all the audited information necessary for the negotiation process.

This fluid communication between the company and the union, and its collaborators, is important, even more so in this era, where workers have the power to share stories and information about the company.

Get informed and seek advice

One of the main functions of unions is to represent their members in collective bargaining processes. It is important that, by then, you know your rights, powers, and jurisdictions. Again, the important thing here is to remain calm and develop an action plan for the negotiation, as well as an appropriate tone for meetings with management. Remember that these negotiations must respect the principle of good faith contained in the Labor Code, in Article 303: "The parties must negotiate in good faith, complying with the obligations and deadlines set forth in the following provisions, without placing obstacles that limit the options for understanding between both parties."

To maintain a climate of cooperation with your company's union or unions, where trust and transparency prevail, we recommend that you rely on the human resources management expertise offered by Wiseplan. 

At Wiseplan, we are specialist human capital consultants. Request a plan tailored to your company's needs and start managing your resources more effectively today, optimizing your team's potential.