Achieving successful bargaining outcomes requires strategy, skill, and the acumen to adapt. In this workshop, experts will guide participants through the process of bargaining from the first meeting of parties up until a final agreement (or strike or arbitration). Attendees will hear panel discussions and work through scenarios highlighting a variety of bargaining essentials, including:

• Setting ground rules for bargaining; 
• Tabling proposals and responding to counter-proposals; 
• Handling package offers; 
• Dealing with late proposals; 
• Anticipating and preparing responses; 
• Communicating with principals, members, and employees and respecting confidentiality; 
• Addressing both parties’ priorities and developing strategies to bridge impasses; 
• Understanding which issues can and cannot be taken to impasse; 
• Analyzing risks of lockouts and strikes; 
• Exploring options of mediation or interest arbitration where available; and 
• Finalizing agreements. 

Participants will leave this training equipped to:

• Develop effective bargaining strategies; 
• Enhance communication and negotiation skills; and 
• Evaluate and respond to bargaining challenges.