Employee involvement
Employee involvement can be described as the process through which employees are engaged in various organisational roles, such as decision-making. Current developments have enhanced the growth of the adoption of employee involvement in various organisations. Various procedures can be implemented to enhance employee involvement, such as through the use of modern technology platforms such as Zoom, Google meetings, and Microsoft Teams meetings (Men et al., 2020). People professionals collect feedback from employees concerning various issues in the organisation, such as developments through the use of surveys or focused group discussions. After the collection of feedback, people professionals evaluate employees’ contributions and implement effective decisions aimed at enhancing organisational development and employee well-being.
Employee participation
Employee participation is the process through which employees in an organisation fully participate in development projects whereby people professionals allocate them various duties and targets (Holley et al., 2019). For example, people professionals can identify a development programme such as the evaluation of customers’ feedback and allocate employees’ various responses to evaluate and determine response actions that should be taken based on the responses. This gives employees a sense of belonging and being valued in the organisation, and this promotes the development of well-being, thus positively impacting organisational development.
Employee involvement and participation build relationships between employees and organisational managers through the development of effective communication and employee well-being. Communication is an essential aspect of an organisation, and thus through employee participation and involvement, people professionals can effectively identify various challenges and needs of employees and implement effective response actions.
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Order Now WhatsAppUnion Employee Representation: Trade Unions
Trade unions are organisations that represent employees’ interests and advocate for their rights in the job market. They negotiate with employers on issues such as wages, working conditions, and other benefits (Lyceum Insurance Services, 2023). Additionally, trade unions provide support during employment disputes, ensuring that employees have a voice in conflicts with their employers. An example of a trade union is the United Kingdom’s Unite the Union.
Non-Union Employee Representation: Employee Forums
Employee forums are a form of non-union representation that allows employees to organise and discuss important issues, providing feedback to management (ACAS, 2024). These forums consist of elected employee representatives who regularly meet with management to address topics such as workplace policies, health concerns, and other employee-related matters (ACAS, 2024). Employee forums are designed to facilitate open discussions and provide a platform for employees to voice concerns outside of a trade union structure.
Similarities
Both trade unions and employee forums serve as channels for employees to express their views on workplace issues. They aim to improve working conditions, enhance employee satisfaction, and promote positive organisational changes (Yadav, 2021). In both cases, employees are represented by elected or appointed officials who negotiate with management on various matters. Moreover, both play a role in resolving conflicts and safeguarding employees’ rights and interests (Yadav, 2021).
Differences
The primary difference between trade unions and employee forums lies in their scope and authority. Trade unions are official, legally recognized organisations with the power to negotiate, strike, and advocate for legal rights on behalf of employees. They typically operate on a national level and can influence industry-wide changes (Lyceum Insurance Services, 2023). In contrast, employee forums are more informal and usually operate within a single organisation. They do not have the authority to negotiate salary increases or engage in industrial actions and primarily serve in an advisory capacity (Lyceum Insurance Services, 2023).
Advantages of Employee Voice on Organisational Performance
Employee voice refers to the ability of employees to express their opinions and concerns. Research suggests that employee voice positively impacts organisational performance (CIPD, 2024). One of the key advantages is increased innovation, as involving more stakeholders leads to a broader range of ideas and solutions that can drive positive change (CIPD, 2024). Additionally, when employees feel heard, job satisfaction improves, which in turn boosts workplace productivity, reduces turnover, and enhances organisational commitment (CIPD, 2024).
Employee voice also contributes to more effective decision-making. Diverse perspectives improve outcomes, as management can combine employees’ insights with its expertise (CIPD, 2024). Moreover, fostering open communication can build trust between employees and managers and enhance cooperation within the organisation by properly motivating the workforce.
Disadvantages
However, there are potential downsides to employee voice. One challenge is the risk of information overload. The constant influx of feedback can overwhelm management, making it difficult to address every issue efficiently. This can lead to delays in decision-making and implementation (Broderick, 2022).
Another potential drawback is the risk of superficial engagement. In some organisations, employees may feel pressured to provide input even when they have little to contribute, leading to low-quality feedback that does not significantly impact organisational performance (Broderick, 2022).
Overall, the relationship between employee voice and organisational performance is largely positive, with the benefits—such as increased engagement, better decision-making, and heightened innovation—outweighing the drawbacks. However, organisations should implement robust systems for managing feedback to minimise information overload and ensure that employee input remains meaningful and constructive.
Concept of Better Working Lives
Better Working Lives
The concept of better working lives revolves around enhancing the quality of work environments and conditions that directly influence employees’ well-being, satisfaction, and productivity. It emphasises the design of jobs and workplaces that are not only financially productive but also contribute positively to individual health (CIPD, 2022).
Designing Better Working Lives
The CIPD’s Good Work Index provides a framework for creating better working lives. It highlights key areas such as job characteristics, work context, employee representation, and equality (CIPD, 2022). By improving these aspects, organisations can set goals that, when achieved, lead to better working conditions for their employees.
Improving Working Lives
Enhancing Job Quality
Improving job quality is crucial for enhancing employees’ working lives. This involves clearly defining roles and setting realistic expectations regarding workloads (Buckingham, 2022). For example, organisations like Google have embraced flexible roles, fostering creativity and innovation among employees. This approach not only boosts job satisfaction but also enhances performance and motivation (Team 6Q, 2020).
Promoting Work-Life Balance
Equal importance should be given to both work and personal life. Organisations can support this by implementing flexible working arrangements, such as remote work options, customizable working hours, and shared schedules (Buckingham, 2022). For instance, Microsoft has adopted flexible working policies that allow employees to arrange their working hours according to their needs (Boyd, 2023). This approach helps reduce stress, prevents burnout, and increases overall job satisfaction.
Organisational Conflict
Organisational conflict refers to disagreements or rivalries within an organisation, whether between individuals or groups (GeeksforGeeks, 2023). These conflicts can arise from differing opinions, values, interests, or goals among the parties involved. When managed effectively, organisational conflict can be beneficial, leading to constructive outcomes such as improved decision-making, innovation, and stronger relationships (GeeksforGeeks, 2023). For example, a conflict between marketing and sales over resource allocation might result in a more effective strategy that benefits the entire organisation.
Misbehaviour
Organisational misbehaviour involves deliberate actions by employees that violate the organisation’s norms, rules, or procedures (Mbagwu, 2021). Unlike conflict, which can be a normal part of workplace dynamics, misbehaviour is typically unhealthy and unwarranted. It includes activities such as embezzlement, harassment, truancy, and neglect of duties (Mbagwu, 2021). For instance, an employee who regularly falsifies reports is engaging in misbehaviour.
Differences
The key difference between conflict and misbehaviour in organisations lies in their intent and impact. Organisational conflict is a work-related clash of views that can lead to positive change if properly managed (GeeksforGeeks, 2023; Mbagwu, 2021). In contrast, misbehaviour involves actions that violate organisational norms and negatively affect the organisation’s functioning. For example, if two employees disagree on the best procedure to complete a project, the resulting conflict could lead to improved outcomes if handled well. However, if an employee actively sabotages a coworker’s efforts out of spite, this constitutes misbehaviour (GeeksforGeeks, 2023; Mbagwu, 2021).
Emerging Trends
Trend 1:
Shift to Shorter and More Strategically Planned Strikes
There is a growing trend towards shorter, more strategically planned industrial actions. Traditionally, strikes were prolonged and disruptive, aiming to exert maximum pressure on employers. However, contemporary strikes are now shorter and more targeted (Hughes and Dundon, 20218). Employees and labour organisations are increasingly opting for sudden, temporary strikes to avoid many of the challenges associated with longer actions. For instance, recent years have seen one-day or even one-hour strikes designed to make a specific statement without significantly disrupting organisational operations.
Impact
This trend allows unions to assert their demands for reforms while maintaining public and employer support. Shorter strikes cause less damage to companies and enable employees to achieve goals such as better wages and working conditions more effectively than prolonged strikes (Hughes and Dundon, 20218). Additionally, mini-strikes help avoid prolonged worker absences, which can strain relations between management and employees.
Trend 2:
Social Media Use in Industrial Actions
The nature of industrial conflicts and the methods of organising and managing them have evolved with the rise of social media. Platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn are now central to coordinating strikes, disseminating information, and rallying support (Future of Work Hub, 2022). For example, workers can use social media to share details about industrial actions, communicate their grievances, and mobilise other workers. One example is the use of social networks during “Occupy” protests or similar movements by various labour unions to campaign for strikes or other forms of protest (Volle, 2022).
Impact
Social media amplifies communication during industrial conflicts, enhancing the mobilisation of affected parties and increasing engagement. It allows workers to share information directly with target audiences and stakeholders, bypassing traditional media (Future of Work Hub, 2022). This can increase pressure on employers and improve the chances of achieving desired outcomes for employees. However, it also introduces new challenges, such as the potential for employer backlash, misinformation, and the rapid spread of false information. If not managed carefully, the increased exposure could escalate tensions in contentious situations (Future of Work Hub, 2022).
Third-Party Conciliation
Third-party conciliation involves the intervention of a neutral third party, known as the conciliator, who assists disputing parties in finding common ground and reaching a compromise. The primary role of the conciliator is to clarify the issues at hand and facilitate negotiations without offering direct recommendations (GOV.UK, 2024). Instead, the conciliator encourages the parties to arrive at mutually agreeable solutions through discussion. This method is commonly used in labour relations, particularly during strikes, where a resolution is sought without resorting to litigation.
Mediation
Mediation is a process where a third party, known as the mediator, voluntarily helps the disputing parties reach a consensus. The mediator is more actively involved in the dispute than a conciliator (GOV.UK, 2024). While guiding the conversation, the mediator offers perspectives, facilitates communication, and presents the arguments and ideas of each party. Mediation is a forum for neutral intervention, where the mediator assists the parties in finding a satisfactory resolution without imposing a decision.
Arbitration
Arbitration is a more formal process in which the disputing parties agree to have a third party, the arbitrator, resolve the matter. Unlike conciliation and mediation, where the third party facilitates discussions, arbitration involves the arbitrator hearing evidence from both sides and making a binding decision (GOV.UK, 2024). This process is typically used in civil or commercial disputes where a clear and enforceable decision is required. The arbitrator acts similarly to a judge, considering the cases of both parties and delivering a final verdict.
Distinctions
The key differences between conciliation, mediation, and arbitration lie in their approaches and outcomes. In conciliation, the focus is on facilitating communication and negotiation without legal representation or imposed solutions. In mediation, the mediator provides guidance and suggests solutions, but the final agreement is voluntary. Arbitration, on the other hand, results in a binding decision made by the arbitrator, making it a more formal and decisive method of dispute resolution (Shaw-Parker, 2024).
Legislation on Unfair Dismissal
Unfair dismissal is regulated under the Employment Rights Act (ERA) 1996, along with additional statutory instruments. This legislation specifies employees’ rights to protection against unfair dismissal and outlines the procedures and grounds for lawful dismissal. According to the ERA, employees are entitled to be dismissed only for a valid reason and through a fair process (legislation.gov.uk, 2024).
Fair Reasons for Dismissal under the ERA
The ERA identifies five fair reasons for dismissal:
Procedure for Addressing Capability Issues
When managing capability issues, the following steps should be followed:
Procedure for Addressing Misconduct
For misconduct issues, the process involves:
Analysis of Capability and Misconduct
Capability issues involve an employee’s reduced effectiveness due to a lack of skills or health problems, which may require support and development. Misconduct, however, involves actions that are knowingly against company policies and standards, typically leading to disciplinary measures (ACAS, 2022). The key difference is that capability issues often need corrective support, whereas misconduct usually warrants disciplinary action.
ACAS Code of Practice
The ACAS Code of Practice provides guidelines on how employers and employees should handle disciplinary and grievance procedures. Adhering to this code is essential to ensure fairness and avoid claims of unfair dismissal. If the ACAS Code is not followed, a tribunal may deem the dismissal unfair, even if the reason for dismissal was potentially valid. Compliance with the code guarantees that procedures are conducted fairly, transparently, and consistently (ACAS, 2022).
Significant Causes of Grievances Among Employees
Unfair Treatment
Unfair treatment is a major source of grievances within organisations, often stemming from perceived or actual inequities such as pay disparities or favouritism. For example, if promotions or salary increases appear to be awarded based on personal relationships rather than merit, employees may feel that the system is unjust. Such biases can erode trust in management and diminish overall morale within the organisation (Geektonight, 2023; Corporate Wellness Magazine, 2024).
Impact
When employees feel unfairly treated, their engagement and commitment can wane, leading to increased absenteeism and turnover. This loss of motivation can directly impact the company’s productivity and overall reputation (Geektonight, 2023).
Prevention
To combat issues of fairness, companies should establish and adhere to transparent practices for promotions, pay raises, and performance evaluations. Regular reviews and fair assessment procedures can help ensure that all employees are treated equitably. Additionally, implementing robust feedback and complaint systems where employees can raise concerns without fear of reprisal can further address and resolve emerging issues (Pazcare, 2024).
Toxic work environment
Toxic working environments can also be a key cause of employee grievance in an organisation. Toxic working environment is caused by various aspects, such as unsafe working conditions and lack of flexibility. This causes lack of well-being among employees and leads to the development of grievances (Rasool et al., 2021). To deal with this, people management professionals can adopt the use of modern technology to facilitate remote working. Employees are thus flexible and can perform various duties remotely, thus contributing to the development of well-being. Moreover, creating safety is an essential aspect that people professionals should enhance, which is done through the acquisition of effective resources and training employees on using those resources.
Poor Communication
Poor communication is another significant cause of employee grievances. This includes a lack of clear expectations, infrequent or insufficient feedback, and inadequate information about organisational changes. For instance, if employees are not informed about upcoming changes in their roles or company policies, they may feel unsupported and uncertain (Geektonight, 2023).
Impact
Breakdowns in communication can lead to conflicts, misunderstandings, and reduced efficiency among employees. It can also foster a negative work environment characterised by mistrust and a sense of being undervalued (Geektonight, 2023).
Prevention
To prevent grievances related to communication issues, organisations should prioritise regular and effective communication. This includes holding frequent team meetings, providing timely updates about changes, and ensuring feedback is constructive and actionable. Training managers in effective communication skills is also crucial. By fostering clear and open communication, organisations can enhance employee satisfaction and maintain a positive and productive workplace (Pazcare, 2024).
Why Effective Grievance Handling is Crucial
Avoiding Legal Claims
Proactively addressing employee grievances is critical to avoid potential legal disputes, particularly those related to dismissals or discrimination. Failure to manage grievances properly can lead employees to pursue legal action. For example, the case of R v London Borough of Southwark (2016) underscores the importance of adhering to established grievance procedures. In this case, the lack of a fair grievance process resulted in the employee being awarded compensation for unfair dismissal (Moodie, 2024). Effective grievance management helps prevent legal claims and the associated costs, ensuring compliance with employment laws and safeguarding the organisation from costly litigation (Corporate Wellness Magazine, 2024).
Impact
Properly handling grievances reduces the likelihood of legal claims and associated expenses. By following standard practices and addressing complaints promptly, organisations can avoid legal disputes and protect their reputation (face2faceHR, 2023).
Maintaining Staff Satisfaction and Motivation
Responding promptly and effectively to employee grievances fosters a positive workplace culture and enhances productivity. When grievances are ignored or mishandled, employee dissatisfaction and low morale are likely to follow, negatively impacting the organisation’s climate and productivity. For instance, in Harper v. Veolia Environmental Services [2018], the employer’s inadequate response to grievances led to decreased morale and productivity among the team. This case illustrates that unresolved grievances can undermine organisational morale and employee commitment (Herbert Smith Freehills, 2024).
Impact
Constructively addressing complaints supports a positive work environment, increasing employee engagement and productivity. When employees see that their concerns are taken seriously and resolved effectively, they are likelier to remain loyal and committed to the organisation (Verasai, 2023). Conversely, poor grievance handling can result in high turnover rates, absenteeism, and decreased productivity.
Conclusion
Efficient grievance handling is essential for avoiding legal claims and maintaining high employee morale. By addressing concerns promptly and transparently, organisations can protect themselves from legal and reputational issues while fostering a productive and positive work environment. Effective grievance management ultimately contributes to organisational success and employee satisfaction.
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