Hunter Harrison Case Study

Running head: HUNTER HARRISON CASE STUDY
Hunter Harrison Case Study
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1HUNTER HARRISON CASE STUDY
1. Analyze the different influence tactics available to Hunter Harrison at the time
radical changes were being introduced, and discuss how these options related to
his power source(s). Which of his available tactics were most effective in bringing
about change at the company? Do you think his approach has led to
internalization, compliance, or resistance? Explain why.
The tactics available to Harrison were impression management, political and proactive
tactics. He made use of the proactive tactic as a way to influence his employees by reviving
the three-day retreat; he was able to blur the lines between managers and employees so to
communicate what was required of all of them as an institution. Harrison faced some
resistance from the union leaders since he had asked his employees to be certified to work on
freight trains.
2. Analyze the different influence tactics available to the unions, and discuss how
these options related to their power source(s). If the threat of a strike is muted
due to potential intervention by the federal government, then what other
influence tactics are likely to be used? Explain.
Unions representatives can bargain collectively by taking care of the negotiating process
between the company and the employees to settle issues. The unions can also opt for
conducting an economic strike, but this creates a risk of losing employment. They can also
conduct another type of strike which is related to unfair labor practices and in this permanent
workers are allowed to keep their jobs after the strike however, temporary employees will
lose their job once the strike ends. If a strike cannot occur, then the unions will have to result
to the first tactic mentioned which calls for civilised means in solving the matter at hand.