How to Break a Union

Unions have done a great deal of good over the years. However, in some instances they have become very harmful. It is very difficult to break a union and if you try and fail, you may be forced to implement almost all of the union's demands. There are certain situations that make it easier break a union so take advantage of those when they arise.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Make your play when business is down. When business is booming you are not going to get much support to try to break a union. If all is well, no one is going to want to pick a fight with the workers. On the other hand, if you are faced with poor revenues or especially in bankruptcy your position may be much stronger.
2. Move when unemployment is high. One of the strengths of a union is that their members make up the workforce of a business. If the business cannot replace those workers then the union has a significant tool to bring the company to their knees. If unemployment is high there is a chance that those workers could be more easily replaced, thus weakening the primary advantage the union possesses.
3. Use the legal system to your advantage. If you can find grounds for a judge to dismiss some of your agreements with the union it could significantly weaken their position in negotiations.
4. Get the public and politicians on your side. If the people are not supportive of a union, especially a union that provides goods or services from the government, that union is going to struggle to maintain its power. Politicians can make things either easier or more difficult. Trying to break a union is tough enough without political support. With these groups supporting you it is only a matter of time before you break the union.