The Pros And Cons Of Labor Unions

Labor unions have represented the rank and file for well over a century, emerging early on as an authoritative voice to protect the shared interests of workers. Although the workplace has evolved through the intervening years, the need for representation continues.

Agencies that work with transit unions can appreciate the dynamic present today and leverage it to create a win-win scenario by employing the following four tips.

1. Smart staffing from the onset minimizes problems later.

Workplace problems often start because the wrong people are doing the wrong job. On closer inspection, the problem isn’t usually the worker, rather it is agency’s hiring process.

Overhaul your hiring process by writing better job descriptions with an emphasis on what the company can do for the employees to attract better-fit candidates …show more content…
Always be prepared to listen…and learn.

The workplace dynamic is always in a state of flux. This means problems can occur at any time, including some you may have no knowledge about until the grievance is aired.

Wrong perceptions can quickly turn a minor issue into a major problem, but the chances of that happening diminish significantly if you maintain an open door policy. This means that anyone who wants to speak with you, including management, temporary or permanent employees, or a union representative must have access to you at all times.

Get in the habit of carefully listening, giving the speaker your undivided attention. Acknowledge the message, show that you’re listening, provide feedback when appropriate, and don’t judge. What may seem like a trivial matter could provide you with a lesson learned.

3. Maintain health and safety as essential tenets.

Transit workers have many concerns that go well beyond their compensation. A safe working environment is essential and that includes ensuring equipment is in working order. Follow all procedures to ensure that problem equipment is identified and repaired before being returned to

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