Happy Valentine's Day. Or anti-valentine's day. Which ever you prefer. I could go for Valentine's Day as I'm a mushy, cuddly romantic at heart (yes, believe it, it's true), but being single.... well.... Here's a photo of my nephew and his salute to chocolate on this day.
Being in a union is an interesting experience. Being in union negotiations is also an interesting experience. I haven't been involved in union business before this year and have certainly learned alot in the last months - how to negotiate, how to strategically propose items, protocols for meetings, etc. It's a fascinating look into the human nature and a great forum for people-watching!
I had wondered if peoples' personalities change when they step into such circumstances, both from our side of the table and the opposite side. I've discovered that both scenarios exist, on both sides of the table. I personally don't think I change when sitting in negotiations - hey, our job is to sit quietly and let the negotiator make all the points we want her to. On the other side of the table - yes, the one person I thought would remain themselves has done so. On the other hand, I've seen quick changes happen as well - becoming somewhat defensive is the most common trait so far (not surprising when monetary issues are brought up!). But the one that shocked me was the negativity towards other colleagues, and this coming from our side of the table. Not in open negotiations, but in the team chats. I'm not a fan of this attitude at all actually. I've had to speak up a few times - if you have an opinion of someone personally, keep it to yourselves in this sort of negotiation process. It's not relevant. I especially get upset when the criticism (not constructive) is directed towards someone(s) I actually hold professional and personal respect for. Okay, history comes into play, and our last contract negotiations were an ugly process, with alot of harsh feelings on each side of the table. But this is a new round, a new contract.
As I said, a learning experience - people watching from both sides of the border, ours and theirs. The next steps will be interesting.
Switching from the human mind to the animal mind...
Jay is giving a talk at Carleton University on March 7th, 7:30pm (see poster left). Yeah!!
"If you had to sum up the last thirty years of research into animal intelligence, you would have to say "they are smarter than we thought." But how smart is that? Are other animals self-aware, as we are? Can we draw a line between intelligent thinking behaviour and automatism, and if so, where? Remember, no one knows how many neurons are needed for consciousness. This lecture will explore these questions and their implications."
Jay, we want SEATS this time!!
Mini Banff-reunion will happen afterwards over drinks.
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