Transforming Global ER/LR Leaders of Tomorrow: Tools and Strategies for Success

HR Policy Global recently hosted a session centered on the evolving role of global labor and employee relations (ER/LR) leaders, grounded in insights from a recent membership survey and report.

The session delivered strategic insights and practical tools, serving both seasoned leaders and newcomers in the field. By understanding emerging trends, attendees gained actionable strategies to benchmark and enhance their approaches to employee and labor relations.

Key Findings:

• Panelists observed that the historical divide between ER- and LR-dominated functions is starting to close.  

• The focus on both strike activity and the individual grievance process highlights the growing importance of proactive employee engagement.

• Alan Wild emphasized that listening and risk analysis are critical for driving more effective engagement.

• Jill Wroble and Meredith Ray discussed the operational impacts of changes in labor relations and shared strategies for fostering cross-departmental collaboration.

The session included a practical checklist for companies looking to refine their ER/LR strategies:

1. Develop a Global Risk Map: Identify potential employee relations risks across your business.

2. Integrate LR/ER into HR Strategy: Ensure that ER/LR is a foundational component of your overall HR strategy.

3. Assess Current LR/ER Capability: Compare your current capabilities against your risk map.

4. Create an ER Health Dashboard: Monitor employee relations health through HR and business performance indicators.

5. Develop an LR Events Calendar: Track key dates for bargaining processes and works council elections.

6. Ensure ER Presence in Key Teams: Include ER professionals in teams managing sustainability, AI tools, pay equity, contract workers, DE&I, and crisis management.

7. Establish an ER Issue Reporting Process: Create routines and teams dedicated to reporting and addressing major ER issues.

The bottom line: By leveraging these tools and fostering continuous learning, organizations can enhance their employee relations strategies and drive improved organizational performance.