Effective Support for Works Councils in the Modern Workplace

The role of a works council is multifaceted and complex. Works councils must function as a team, despite often coming from diverse backgrounds. A mix of union representatives and non-union members frequently leads to internal power struggles. Nevertheless, everyone must collaborate to achieve the best outcomes for the employees. This collaboration is complicated by the necessity to participate in topics where they often lack expertise.

Another aspect is the competition during works council elections, which can take on political dimensions. However, after the elections, everyone must work together. After the works council and employee representation elections, the newly formed committees must organize themselves and plan their collaboration for the next term. Challenges also arise from the changing work environment, characterized by digitization and globalization. The complexity of work structures and relationships is increasing, making it more difficult to represent the interests of a diverse workforce.

Forster&Klevenz management consultancy offers comprehensive support in this area. We help works councils position themselves as a team and assist in designing and adapting new working methods. Our expertise in agile working methods prepares works councils for new requirements. Studies show that agile working methods can improve and make collaboration more flexible (see Böckler Impuls, 2022).

We also offer individual consulting and coaching to strengthen the leadership role of works council chairs. Conflict resolution and finding common solutions between employers and employee representatives are central elements of our consulting services. We also promote open and transparent communication among all parties.

Works councils benefit from our experience and the resources provided to successfully navigate the challenges of the modern workplace and create real added value for the workforce.

In today’s work environment, the interests of employers and works councils frequently clash. These differing perspectives can lead to serious conflicts that cannot be resolved internally. For a long time, studies, like the one by Fisher and Ury in Getting to Yes (1981), have shown that external support is valuable in such situations to untangle deadlocks. At Forster&Klevenz, we rely on structured mediation to resolve these conflicts. We facilitate constructive discussions, promote active listening, and help find sustainable solutions together. Through empathy, openness, and authenticity, we create a solution-oriented atmosphere. With our extensive experience, we understand the needs of both parties and bring them together. Mutual respect forms the foundation of our mediation and facilitation. This enables us to bring all parties to the table and develop constructive approaches to conflict resolution.