Communication in the labour relationship

Effective communication is essential to sound labour relations. Positive communication can be vital to the survival of an institution andreduces the possibility of conflict and labour unrest within the institution. In a country with a diversity of cultures, such as South Africa, themethods of commu-nication are very important to a sound labour environment. Communica-tion is also vital to negotiations.The purpose of this article is therefore to explain communication in the work place and to explain the impact of communication on the negotiation process. A culture of good communica-tion and joint decision making is conducive to effective negotiations and trust between the parties to the labour relationship.Workplace issues can then be solved through communication and harmonious labour relations. Increased positive interaction between employers and employees may lead to a shared identity, common goals and objectives and a decrease in distrust betweenmanagement and thework force. 1