Broken Quote by Carl Icahn
“And I'm convinced, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that you can work with the unions because the unions want to survive. If they are confronted simply with the question: "Do you want this company to survive or do you want it to be broken up?" they will listen. It's their livelihood.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: CNBC, 2014
Unions prioritize their survival, so framing a question about company continuity can persuade them to cooperate.
In simple terms: Unions will support a company if they see it as essential to their own survival.
Key Takeaway
Present proposals as essential for union survival.
Themes
labor relations
negotiation
survival
strategy
Mood
strategic
pragmatic
Type
business
negotiation
When to use this quote
- corporate restructuring
- union negotiations
- employee relations
- policy advocacy
Key Concepts
game theory
collective bargaining
incentive alignment
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you demonstrate genuine concern for union members?
- What alternative incentives could reinforce cooperation?
A Different Perspective
Unions may distrust motives, limiting effectiveness.
