Six of the 10 Rules are about how to treat people but among the harshest criticisms that Wal-Mart faces today is that it exploits employees. Why do you think this has happened? Michael Bergdahl's answer: In the USA much of the criticism is brought to the forefront by labor unions and other special interest groups. In the USA union membership has declined from almost 30% of the workforce 30 years ago to 12% today. The U.S. labor unions are desperately trying to organize the world's largest retailer and failing miserably. In truth Wal-Mart pays its employees a competitive compensation package in retailing which includes an above average retail salary, benefits, annual profit-sharing, 401K and store bonus. The unions have tried for over 20 years to organize Wal-Mart's employees in its stores and in the USA they have been unsuccessful. When an employee relations issue arises the unions jump onboard and make a mountain out of a mole hill! Wal-Mart's leaders still embrace Mr. Sam's 6 rules about how people should be treated. Don't believe all the negative news you read or see in the media about Wal-Mart because the systemic criticism against Wal-Mart is unwarranted!