The steps of forming a union
Discuss a scenario where a coworker gives another employee a union leaflet urging employees to sign an authorization card. What questions should the receiving employee ask of the union supporter? List the steps of forming a union within an organization from this point on after the authorization card signing?
-What benefits will I receive if I join your union?
-How much does it cost to join?
-How long will it take for me to get those benefits?
-How much control do I have over decisions that affect me as part of the union?
-Will there be any additional costs associated with joining or staying in the union?
-What rights do I have as part of the union?
-Who will represent my interests in negotiation proceedings with management?
After receiving answers to these questions, and learning more about how becoming part of the union could benefit them, employees can choose whether or not they would like to sign an authorization card. Authorization cards are simply documents which allow employees to signal their interest in being represented by a certain labor organization – but it doesn’t mean they must become members immediately. Once enough signatures (usually 30%–50%) have been collected, then steps can be taken towards forming an official labor organization. Below is described some steps that might follow after collecting authorization cards:
1) The labor organization submits its request for recognition from management and provides evidence that at least 30%-50% of workers support representation by this particular organization; 2) Management responds either positively or negatively within seven days; 3) If management recognizes the labor organization, collective bargaining negotiations begin between representatives chosen by both sides; 4) Both sides negotiate terms such as wages and working conditions until reaching agreement on all points; 5) After finalizing contract details and negotiating implementation deadlines, both parties sign off on legally binding agreement; 6) All parties must abide by agreed upon terms until expiration date when negotiations may begin again. 7) Finally, elected officers representing each side ensure compliance with rules set out in contract during term period.