Considering a Union? Don’t vote before you see this (for employees only).

WE GET IT!

You’re frustrated.

You didn’t just wake up thinking, “I really need to send some money to a union.” People seek out unions to solve real problems. We meet thousands of employees every year just like you. Facing tough problems and considering hiring a union to solve them.

You and your coworkers probably tried a lot of other options before talking to a union. Why won’t anyone listen? Can a union help?

This is an important question. But there’s a problem. Unions aren’t popular today (less than 7% of non-government workers belong to one). A lot of the information out there is slanted on both sides (that’s right, anti-union information isn’t always factual either).

Your frustrations and questions are valid. Could we share some experience as someone who’s spent 40 years educating hundreds of thousands of employees in the same boat you’re in today?

Don’t make a hasty decision!

There are a lot of facts available to you if you know where to look. This page will get you started. And remember, nobody who talks to you about unions will be completely neutral. Fact check everything (even us). Then make the best possible choice for you and your family.

Reality Check: The Top Ten Myths About Unions

MYTH 1: More Money

In collective bargaining, your compensation could:

GO UP (but no guarantees)
GO DOWN (union gives up something to get a contract)
STAY THE SAME (and you choose to pay dues)

No one can predict how you will be impacted

MYTH 2: A Voice at Work

In matters of wages and working conditions

The union speaks for you
Even when you don’t agree with the union!
The steward speaks for the union, not you

The company is not required to seek employee input on operations

MYTH 3: I Can't Get Fired

Contracts typically require “just cause” to fire someone

Just cause = misconduct or poor performance
A contract can be more rigid than existing policy

Plus, you can lose your job if the union makes a mistake (like missing a deadline)

MYTH 4: No More Favoritism

A bad union steward can “play favorites” the same way a bad supervisor can.
Complaints are filed against unions for unfairness
Seniority isn’t always fair.

MYTH 5: No More Changes

An employer rarely gives up control over:

Productivity standards
Schedules
Staffing levels
Hours of operation

MYTH 6: Everything's In Writing

The union and the employer can agree to changes in benefits during a contract
Benefit changes are often needed to remain competitive
Remaining competitive = job security

MYTH 7: Job Security

A company can cut back for legitimate business reasons.
Remaining competitive is the only job security.
Union retirement funds can and do fail or cut back on benefits.
As unions shrink, their pension plans become weaker.

MYTH 8: "Test Drive" The Union

It’s not that easy to vote a union out!
If the union signs a contract during that year you can’t vote them out for the length of that contract up to three years
Union often attempt to fine or discipline members for attempting to decertify

MYTH 9: I Just Won't Pay Dues

In Right to Work states paying dues cannot be required as a condition of employment. HOWEVER

Unions typically pressure “freeloaders” into paying
Freeloaders can’t vote on strikes & contracts

The union will still speak for you, even if you don’t agree, even if you don’t pay dues.

MYTH 10: I Can't Lose

With a union, you could lose:

Compensation, in bargaining.
Your voice, if you disagree with the union.
Your job, for a union’s mistake (like missing a deadline).
Fairness, with the wrong steward.
Opportunity, due to seniority.
Competitive edge.
Retirement to a failing pension.
The chance to change your mind.
Money you feel compelled to pay.
The freedom to work out issues directly.

Labor Law Guide

Click image to download

This helpful guide to the National Labor Relations Act is published by the National Labor Relations Board, the government agency that enforces the labor laws. Click to download the guide. Pay special attention to:

  • Page 9 (union security clauses can require you to pay money to union or be fired)
  • Page 10 (economic strikers can be permanently replaced)
  • Page 12 (employer and union not required to reach an agreement)
  • Page 19 (employer can still discharge for economic reasons like “disobedience or bad work”)

Questions you should ask union supporters:

Could I be put on trial by the union? For what?

Are union dues a good investment? How much will they be?

Could I lose any of the benefits I currently have when the union bargains with the company? How?

Can I lose money or be replaced during a strike?

How difficult is it to get rid of the union if I decide I don't like what they bring to our company?

5 Keys to Winning Your Election

Sign up now to receive our FREE report 5 Keys to Winning Your Union Election (plus 2 things you think are true that could cost you and election victory. Don't go into your vote before you read this!

Check your email for The 5 Keys to Winning Your Election

Join Labor Relations INK!

Sign up today for FREE and get INK weekly. Plus get breaking labor relations news when it happens. We never share your email and you can unsubscribe any time.

You are now subscribed.

FREE Tripwire Sample

Get Immediate Access to our NEW Tripwire Training Program and Train Supervisors on Early Warning Behaviors of Union Activity. We never share your email, unsubscribe any time.

You are now subscribed.

Unions: The 7 Lies

Sign up now to receive our FREE report Unions: 7 Lies You Must Know. Union organizers tell these lies in every union election campaign. Get the facts today.

Check your email for The 7 Lies

Username and Password Request

Fill out the request form below (all fields required). We will call to confirm your identity and share the username and password. After 7AM to 5PM ET or weekends feel free to call 800-888-9115.

We will contact you at the number or email you provided.

Get Your FREE White Paper

Get Immediate Access to ALL White Papers and Learn the How to Avoid Labor Relations Problems and Create a Positive Workplace Today. We never share your email, unsubscribe any time.

You have Successfully Subscribed!

Share This