Originally Posted by
Bill Lumberg
This is called "managing expectations.". They opened up contract talks early, meaning they want something. That could be labor peace, or whatever. That is called leverage also. DALPA must use it correctly, or face possibly getting replaced. Plain and simple.
Lets be factually correct here. DALPA approached the company to open early. The company agreed. They did not approach us. We opened 3 weeks early on what is normally a 2 year process. I am not sure that translates into some crushing requirement the company needs.
What is different and more important then the early opening is the pace of negotiations. The company appears to be moving the process along when if they desired they could drag it out for years and years. They have decision makers directly involved. In past negotiations we would exchange a term sheet on a specific section and might not get a reply for months. They are getting things done in days. I still however rate the chances of a early contract as no better then 50/50. I just don't see the company as willing to put up the kind of cash it will take for a ratified contract just to get it done early. I hope I am wrong.