Atim supports Works Council members in developing their skills to engage in constructive consultations with management. As a Works Council team, you gain a clear understanding of your competencies and strengths, enabling you to use them effectively. You establish specific, achievable agreements and ensure ongoing alignment by regularly checking that you remain on the same page and continue to build mutual trust and understanding as a team.
At Atim, you’ll meet enthusiastic trainers and consultants who bring optimism to every session. We understand the challenges Works Councils face, but we also believe that friction can spark growth. That’s why we teach you how to navigate the strong emotions that can emerge when working closely together.
Our promise? You’ll enjoy the journey. We’ll help you embrace a straightforward, relaxed approach to Works Council work—enabling your team to perform at its best and stay focused on achieving outstanding results.
Works Councils Foster Better Management
Works Councils contribute to wiser management decisions by assessing the mood on the shop floor and discussing the needs and concerns of the company’s employees. Effective information exchange during consultations with management leads to more informed decisions that benefit the company as a whole. While the management retains ultimate responsibility for the final decision, the input from the Works Council is crucial.
The Dutch Works Councils Act
Both the Works Council and management have rights and responsibilities in their joint consultations, as outlined in the Dutch Works Councils Act. The Works Council plays a significant role in decision-making within the organisation by exercising its rights to advise, approve, and propose changes. Furthermore, both parties can agree on procedures to facilitate the consultation process.
Elections
In the Netherlands, any organisation with 50 or more employees is legally required to establish a Works Council. Every three years, employees elect representatives to sit on the Works Council. Any permanent member of the company’s workforce is eligible to stand for election, but management members are excluded from taking part in the election process.
You recently joined the Works Council and want to effectively represent those who elected you. But how do you go about it? Ask questions, listen carefully and be patient. The knowledge you need is readily available. This article explains how to smoothly transition into your new role as a member of the Works Council.
