Originally from Collective Bargaining: How it Works and Why - 3rd Edition

IN THIS SECTION we discuss the mechanics of team operation and the way in which a team handles and transmits information, both internally and horizontally.

Spokespersons and Team Discipline

In football, one man calls the offensive team’s signals to begin the play—the quarterback. In negotiations, the same principle applies—one person speaks for the team at the bargaining table. To continue the football analogy, just as the quarterback may not call his own plays, but merely executes the wishes of the coach, so a team’s spokesperson may not really direct the team’s decision-making.

To have clarity and consistency of position, each team speaks through one person. This is a generally accepted rule in both the public and private sectors, on both the employer and union sides. Typically, members of each team communicate at the table with the spokesperson by means of a written note or, if physical proximity allows, a whispered comment. To let the other side overhear and learn about any internal dissension will not only undermine a team’s position, but also call into question the quality of leadership.