THE FEDS SAY IT'S TIME TO ALLOW UNIONS TO TALK TO TRIBAL EMPLOYEES

Implications: It seems like there is a very fine line between keeping tribal affairs and federal guidelines in perfect order. It's my opinion that the courts made the correct decision in this case. The implications of allowing tribes off the hook where unions are concerned or for that matter any type of employee advancement is outlandish. How can others compete in the employment market with one group having a very real advantage by not allowing unions on their lands. I don't either endorse unions or am a nay sayer - this is a matter to be handled by management with the best interest of their employees in mind.

Analysis: Look at the basics of this matter. The casinos would rather not have union representation. It's not just a tribal thing, but apparent that most of the U.S. properties would like to rid themselves of the high cost of union affiliation. There is a very real dilemma here as many of the properties would not be giving employees any special treatment without the unions presence. So are they good or bad - depends what side of the fence you are on. I do agree that the unions have a bit too much to say in the business end of many properties. From time to time they like to flex their muscles and let employers know that they hold a strong hand in their business future. You can understand managements feelings when much of their cost go to employee payroll, 401K contributions, insurance, uniforms, meals and other in house benefits afforded their employees. I am a true believer that a happy and well paid employee is a great investment in the future of any business, especially casinos that constantly deal with the public. Every person working in the resort gaming business is a true representative of the establishment they are associated with.

So what's the bottom line for these tribes that are now trying to keep unions out of their properties? There are other casinos that have opted out of union representation. There was never a question that they could not try and organize employees, but the tribes would just like them to go away. These non-union properties have for a fact made sure that the employees in question were in a position to make more dollars, have better insurance and a more solid retirement plan than the union could provide. Some of the properties have even given their employees a right to speak with management - usually through their Human Resources division and without pulling any punches. Management listens to the needs of their employees. It's to their advantage to make happy people in the work force.

What does this accomplish for the hotels? It a direct move to give better service to customers - it's a way to market the property at no additional costs by word of mouth. Trust me a bad employee can do more damage in one day than you could possibly believe. The bottom line is well served by an aggressive people to people marketing program  - it shows in profits, attitude and a desire by the entire team to make the property an example to be envied.

If you want the bottom line to improve - keep the employees happy - they make good decisions when they feel that they are an integral part of the team...........

Good business - good profits - top notch employees - it all adds up to a successful casino operation....................