Business Focus of Union Split Centers around Workers

Perhaps more than any other business story, labor issues can be summed up in one resonating common theme -- the effect they have on people.

The livelihoods and personal bottom lines of millions of American workers came into question last week with the defection of three powerful unions from the AFL-CIO. These departures account for about one-third of the AFL-CIO's 13 million members.

Without the affiliation, workers in these unions can no longer rely on the AFL-CIO to lobby around such critical issues as health care costs, pension benefits and pay raises. There is a good chance some of your readers are worried about such security. This can help shape your initial coverage.

"The bottom line is to continually step back and see how this is going to change people," says Stephen Franklin, labor reporter for The Chicago Tribune. "The bigger picture is pensions and quality of life."

The history of the AFL-CIO is just that -- history. While it is an interesting sidebar how powerful and relevant organized labor once was, it doesn't provide great significance for the majority of your readership. Moving forward with the story is what will hit home.

"What's important is what is going to or likely to change," Franklin suggests. "Look at the truth behind what unions say and what the impact should be for organizations working in the future."

Include membership trends and projections to complement (rather than dominate) your coverage.

Speak to qualified sources to get their take on what level of success the remaining members of the AFL-CIO, as well as those who have departed, might enjoy.

Be sure to also take the pulse of workers on both sides of the union split. Their concerns might help you ask the experts the questions that are also on your readerships' minds.

"There are labor experts at academic centers and attorneys who represent businesses," Franklin recommends. "I tend to lean on academic experts and look for people who are less partisan but outspoken."

Speaking of partisanship, there are major political ramifications that deserve business coverage. Political parties that depend on campaign contributions from big labor groups have a stake in how this plays out as well.

Keep in mind that the nation's capital is not the only source for lobbying sources. These unions have roots all over the nation.

"Politics cannot be ignored; it's very critical," Franklin says. "Unions succeed because they convince state and local officials to change laws."

Consumers of unionized industries also might see a trickle-down effect. Keep an eye on strikes from various working groups if matters begin to dissipate and further change is instituted.

Some other questions Franklin thinks are worth investigation:

• Will the public become more accepting of unions?
• Are unions going to make themselves more marketable?
• How will it affect workers and change specific markets?

Copyright © 2008 Donald W. Reynolds National Center for Business Journalism