August 23, Session #2

Jay Greening's presentation was helpful when looking at the big picture of negotiations. I picked up on three elements. 1.) Building relationships with the people at the table prior to negotiations is essential. 2.) The bargaining process should be an opportunity to improve employee relations. 3.) Successful negotiations are based on what happens prior to the process even beginning.
He provided many tips to follow to enhance the negotiations process. As I left for the day, I guess what was circling in my head was how beneficial it would be to work with him as you head into your first few negotiation processes and beyond. His handouts seemed as though they would really assist in the process. You really have to have a sound understanding of what the District can afford yet at the same time aim for having both parties feeling like they have left the table with more than they expected. That takes skill!