What’s a bargaining unit?
Sometimes the word union and phrase bargaining unit are used interchangeably, but knowing how one functions in relation to the other under U.S. law is key in the early stages of organizing your workplace.
Negotiations
Everyone loves a good bargain.
Thanks to legal protections and the power of a unified workforce, unions have the ability to bargain with employers for better benefits. When both sides agree on a subject, these new changes are cemented in a contract that must be honored.
You are deserving of fair treatment and compensation on the job so let's make sure you get it.
Articles in the section cover the ins and outs of collective bargaining.
Collective bargaining topics: what’s on the table?
When it comes to collective bargaining, what’s on the negotiating table?
Collective bargaining: how does it work?
Let’s take a peek behind the curtain at what really goes on during contract negotiations, and how effective collective bargaining can be.
What is a strike?
Workers have a lot of power when they band together. Sometimes, that power lies in withholding labor to get employers to negotiate fairly and improve workplace standards. Think of it as the ultimate worker flex.
How do you go on strike?
Here’s what you need to know about going on strike — without striking out.
Union representation for meetings: how to exercise your Weingarten rights
Weingarten rights, established by the Supreme Court in 1975, guarantee employees the right to union representation during investigatory interviews.
Collective bargaining agreements: what’s in a union contract
Also known as a union contract, a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) is a legally binding document that outlines the terms of employment for union members. This article breaks down some of the elements most commonly found in a union contract.
Company transitions: what happens when my company merges or moves?
When ownership changes hands or companies decide to move, the status of a Collective Bargaining Agreement and recognition of your union can be thrown into limbo.
Democratic decision-making: practices and tools
In this article, we cover how you can start making better decisions by giving everyone a voice.
Issue campaigns: turning a problem into a movement
If your employer is acting shady or there’s a policy you want to fix, it might be time to launch an issue campaign. Here's how.
Negotiations: winning a strong union contract
Union contracts are negotiated in bargaining sessions but are won by the resolve and unity of the full membership.
Negotiating to end harassment: put it in the contract
How collective bargaining can make your workplace safer — for everyone.
Get what you deserve: fair wages and benefits
So how do unions determine what to propose during negotiations? Also, what is a fair contract with salary and benefits and how do we get there?
Strategic escalation: strong campaigns require strong unions
Once you’ve exhausted your internal options and know your unit is ready, it’s time to put the bosses on blast.
Safety in numbers: how unions save workers
Because most Americans lack the protection of a strong union, American workers are losing out when fighting for occupational safety and it’s costing them more than just wages.
Bargaining surveys: know your member priorities before negotiations
Having a clear sense of member stakes is essential before heading to the negotiating table. So, what goes into a bargaining survey?
Can I ask for a raise during negotiations?
This is a question of both strategy and legality, but the bottom line remains the same: the union and management must agree on a raise before it happens.