business-alevel-year1-staffing-approaches

What are the two perspectives on staffing in a business?

Staff as an asset and staff as a cost.

What are some features of a flexible workforce?

Multi-skilling, part-time and temporary work, flexible hours and home working, outsourcing.

What is the difference between dismissal and redundancy?

Dismissal is due to employee behavior or performance, whereas redundancy occurs when a job is no longer required.

What is meant by treating staff as an asset?

Employees are seen as the most important resource in a business and a source of competitive advantage.

Short-term focus on employee numbers with minimal communication from management.

What is a key feature of treating staff as a cost?

How is decision-making characterized when treating staff as a cost?

Decision-making may be quicker and focused on senior managers.

What is one benefit of a flexible workforce?

Businesses can save on costs by having fewer overheads and potentially increase job satisfaction.

What is multiskilling in the context of staffing?

Allowing staff to carry out a variety of tasks instead of specializing in one role.

What is outsourcing?

Delegating one or more business processes to an external provider.

What distinguishes outsourcing from offshoring?

Outsourcing is when someone else does the work for a business, while offshoring means that the work is done overseas.

What legal requirement must employers follow in terms of employee representation?

Employers must consult with employees on proposed redundancy programs and changes to their working conditions.

What is the main role of trade unions?

To protect and improve the real incomes and job security of their members.

What are the two main functions of a trade union?

To represent and protect the interests of employees and to negotiate on their behalf with employers.

What is work-to-rule?

A form of industrial action where employees strictly follow the conditions of their employment contract.

What are some methods to avoid industrial disputes?

Regular consultations, staff forums, and honest discussions between management and employees.

What is the purpose of works councils under EU legislation?

To ensure mandatory employee representation for businesses operating in two or more EU countries with over 1,000 employees.

What does mediation aim to achieve in workplace disputes?

To restore and maintain the employment relationship by helping parties reach an acceptable solution.

What are the advantages of employee representation?

It can lead to increased empowerment, better decision-making, and lower risk of industrial disputes.

What are the disadvantages of employee representation?

It may be time-consuming and lead to conflicts between employer and employee interests.

What factors contribute to the decline in trade union membership in the UK?

Decline in manufacturing jobs, increased service sector employment, growth in small firms, flexible working, and improved direct employee involvement.