This guide contains practical, field-tested advice concerning the development of a suitable negotiating strategy for management's use in public sector collective bargaining. The author stresses that strategies are long-term plans of action and that this book does not consider bargaining tactics--the individual methods used to achieve the strategic objectives. The book consists of 20 "how to" sections covering the following topics: detecting and using trends in labor relations; developing a master strategy plan; dealing with different bargaining styles; managing human relations; overcoming major obstacles; avoiding common serious errors; managing the scope of negotiations; retaining management rights; evaluating demands; beginning the flow of agreements; compromising; making bargaining work; making benefits work for the employer; breaking temporary deadlocks; countering union tactics; dealing with charges of unfair labor practices; closing negotiations; using power; handling public involvement; and coping with strikes and strike threats. A final section discusses 14 predictions regarding the future of public sector labor relations. (PGD)