Union organizers can and will promise you anything to get you to sign an authorization card. However, what you're unlikely to hear from them is the downside of union organization - how it directly impacts you and our company.
Union representation has a hefty price tag. Here are a few examples of the financial obligations you may encounter with membership:
Union contracts typically contain work rules that tie a company's hands in dealing with its team members. For example, under those contract rules, we may not be able to provide the same flexible schedules or help our people achieve a work-life balance. Why? Because unions often negotiate seniority provisions, based on how long you've worked for the company, that give special privileges and protections to the team members with the most seniority. We don't think that's a fair system for anyone. We think treating our people as individuals (and not as numbers) is better.
Under most union contracts, promotions and raises are also done strictly on the basis of seniority. Merit is not a consideration. So, our hardest working team members may not be eligible for advancement if someone with more seniority wants the same job. We prefer a system like we have now, where team members who work hard can use their talents to get ahead.
Union members are required to abide by the union's rules. These are often set out in the local union's by-laws and/or constitution. Union members are often subject to disciplinary rules and procedures that include trials, fines, suspension, or even expulsion from the union. They also may be stuck with decisions the union makes about what's in the contract, or whether to go on strike. (Learn about the Union's Constitution.)
Unions often create conflict and a less friendly, more formal work atmosphere. Many former union members can attest to the "us vs. them" mentality that often comes with having a union. Unions can stand between you and U.S. AutoForce and between you and your manager when it comes to trying to find common sense solutions to routine issues that inevitably crop up during the workday.
Despite all of the above costs and disadvantages, you have no guarantee that union negotiations will get you more or better pay, benefits, or other terms and conditions of employment. In fact, you could lose just as easily as you might gain in the process. In fact, unions sometimes draw team members into costly strikes. Find out by clicking here what you could risk during a strike.
