UPDATE: Here is a pretty funny addendum to the post below. This bargaining relationship between Bloomberg and the Teacher’s Union seems pretty mature. It will be interesting to see some commentary on the ultimate settlement. In the battle of tough New York mayors it appears Bloomberg beats Guiliani, at least as far as union negotiators are concerned. Some interesting quotes about Bloomberg’s bargaining style, particularly how he makes it ineffective to bargain in the press. From the article:. “Ms. Roberts [AFSCME DC 37] and Ms. Weingarten [Teacher’s Union] both said the only way to persuade Mr. Bloomberg is by presenting compelling facts, not by issuing threats or orchestrating protests…. [Ms. Weingarten said], “He has an engineering mind, and it takes a lot of facts to convince him. But I also find him to be honest and forthright.” Good advice – be honest and forthright, demand facts (and be willing to make concessions where the facts so dictate) and make clear that negotiations occur at the table and ONLY at the table.
