Die eerstevlaktoesighouer se veranderde rol in die verbetering van arbeidsverhoudinge op die mikrovlak
Abstract
Labour relations involves the total relationship between employers and employees. All forms of interaction between these parties, irrespective of the way in which they take place, are involved. This relationship is also not only limited to the workplace. It is therefore influenced by external factors.
Recent changes to the formal labour relations system pose difficult demands for the first line supervisor. The management of labour relations is a complex task. Due to the negative perceptions of first line supervisors with regard to their black subordinates, the supervisors find it difficult to maintain sound labour relations. The first line supervisors' labour relations task is further complicated by a complicated macro environment which impact on the organisation in their demands. Subordinates, in turn, are also unrealistic 2. OBJECTIVES OF THIS STUDY - The aim of
supervisors conform to the study was to establish whether the first line of a specific organisation had the ability to new expectations which came about as a result of the changed labour relations dispensation. In this regard, the following objectives were set: * to establish the degree to which changed demands had an impact on the role of the supervisor in maintaining sound labour relations; * to establish whether the supervisor still could conform to the new role expectations;
* to establish factors which limit the supervisor to conform to requirements with regard to his labour relations role. 3. METHOD OF RESEARCH - It was decided to undertake a literature study as well as empirical research at a chemical plant in the Vaal Triangle. Mainly American, English and local sources were used as references for the literature study. Unpublished working documents of trade union federations were also used for this purpose. The empirical research was done with questionnaires which were completed by 110 respondents. This figure represents 50 percent of the total number of first line supervisors in the plant where the study was conducted. 4. RESULTS - A few of the most important findings are as follows: * due to negative perceptions of black subordinates, the first line supervisor finds it difficult to manage his subordinates in such a way that a quality relationship is established; * new expectations are demanded of the first line supervisors by senior management and subordinates; * factors which limit the supervisor in maintaining sound labour relations are as follows: the illiteracy of unskilled employees; absurd demands by trade unions; the current political climate; language differences; home circumstances of subordinates; lack of communication; lack of sufficient support by Senior Management. 5. RECOMMENDATIONS - The most important recommendations are summarized as follows: * the implementation of a strategy to improve inter-personal relations; * * the improvement of supervisor by means working hours; the qualifications of the first line of a structured self-study scheme during the implementation of
promote Black employees supervisors; an to equal the opportunity positions of program to first line
* the promotion of joint decision making.