Where to Start

To get a union started, the first thing you will need to do is talk to some of your co-workers. Do they share some of the concerns that you have? Do they have additional issues? Are there common themes such as a lack of respect, favoritism, broken promises, safety concerns, or wages and benefits that are lower than industry standards?

Keep in mind that most employers do not want their employees to organize. They like things just the way they are. Without a union, management can do whatever they want, whenever they want, to whomever they want. If they catch on that you are talking union, they may start a vigorous anti-union campaign before you are prepared for it.

Consequently, at this initial stage of the process it is best to be discreet until you know where your co-workers stand. When approaching fellow employees use open questions such as:

• "Does it frustrate you when…?"
• "Do you think that we're underpaid?"
• "I can't believe the workload I've got!"
• "If it ever came to a union vote, how would you vote?"
• "Is it me, or does it seem like Joe gets treated better than everyone else?"

Once you have made contact with a number of your co-workers, your BWU organizer will help you to evaluate whether to move forward with a campaign. The information that you gathered will determine if there is a clear majority of employees concerned about significant issues, the potential for majority support of the union, and the ability to build a strong committee of employees who are willing to take a leadership role in building your union.

Throughout your campaign, BWU will provide you with the support and guidance that you will need to build your own effective workplace organization. Through BWU, you and your co-workers will have the ability to improve your working conditions through bargaining and enforcing your contract.