Describe a time when you had to negotiate with a difficult or resistant party. How did you handle the situation?

I remember a time when I had to negotiate with a difficult party during the annual contract negotiation with our labor union. The representative from the union was resistant to many of our proposals and was not willing to compromise. I handled the situation by first understanding their concerns and then presenting data and evidence to support our proposals. I remained calm and professional throughout the negotiation, focusing on finding common ground and building rapport with the representative. Eventually, we were able to reach a mutually beneficial agreement that satisfied both parties.

In my previous role as a Labor Relations Assistant, I encountered a challenging negotiation with a resistant labor union during contract renewal. The main sticking point was the proposed changes to employee healthcare benefits. To handle the situation, I thoroughly researched the applicable labor laws to ensure our proposals were lawful and aligned with industry standards. I also maintained open lines of communication with the union representatives, scheduling regular meetings to address their concerns and provide updates on our proposals. Additionally, I organized and analyzed data on healthcare costs and employee demographics to support our position. By approaching the negotiation with empathy, active listening, and a strong understanding of the relevant laws, I was able to build trust and find common ground. Eventually, we reached an agreement that balanced the needs of both parties.

During my time as a Labor Relations Coordinator at XYZ Company, I faced a challenging negotiation with a resistant labor union when proposing changes to the overtime policy. The union was concerned about the potential impact on their members' work-life balance. To handle the situation, I initiated a series of pre-negotiation meetings with the union representatives to address their concerns and gather input. I also proactively sought input from employees through surveys and focus groups to understand their needs and priorities. Armed with this information, I presented a revised proposal that addressed the union's concerns while still achieving the company's objectives. Throughout the negotiation, I ensured clear and timely communication, providing regular updates and seeking feedback from both the union and management. This transparent approach helped build trust and fostered a collaborative atmosphere. Ultimately, we reached a mutually beneficial agreement that balanced the interests of the workforce and the company.