Final answer:
An impasse in labor relations is when negotiations stall, mediation involves a third party to help resolve disputes, and a strike is when workers cease work to pressure an employer. Techniques like additional mediation, fact-finding, and arbitration can help overcome impasses. Union drives lead to elections through a formal NLRB process.
Step-by-step explanation:
Definition of Impasse, Mediation, and Strike
An impasse in labor relations is a situation where the parties involved, typically an employer and a union, cannot agree on the terms of a new contract and the negotiation process has stalled. Mediation is a dispute resolution process whereby a neutral third party, the mediator, helps the conflicting parties find a mutually acceptable solution. A strike is an action undertaken by workers where they stop working in an effort to force compliance with their demands from the employer.
Techniques to Overcome an Impasse
Several techniques can be employed to overcome an impasse. These include:
Additional mediation sessions where a third party can aid in finding a compromise.
The use of fact-finding, where a neutral party examines the dispute and suggests a resolution.
Arbitration, where a third party makes a binding decision on how to resolve the impasse.
Seeking assistance from a federal or state labor relations board.
Union Drive and Election Steps
A union drive and election typically follow these steps:
- Workers show interest in organizing a union.
- A formal petition for a union is filed with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).
- The NLRB verifies the interest and schedules an election.
- Union campaigns and employer communications occur ahead of the election.
- An election is held, and if a majority votes in favor, the union is certified.