I am doing an assignment on unions. What are some advantages of being in a union? and What are some disadvantages of being in a union?

carolh

I noticed there is another person asking the same question. Are you in the same class?

Advantage of being in a labor union is that you are covered under a bargaining agreement (contract). There are usually steps that have to be followed for an employer (company) to discipline or fire you. If you are not in a union, you are considered an "at will" employee and you can be fired without given a reason. You do not have to beg for your own raises or benefits. They are spelled out in the contract. They cannot be taken away unless you union bargains them away in a contract negotiation. You have seniority which may get you a promotion even if someone is more qualified for a position. If you are working for a company who is unfair, your unit as a whole can do a work slow down or shut down. If you were not in a union and could not organize a group to do so, you would be ineffective on your own fighting a company. Some unions provide insurance and pensions and other benefits to their members.

Disadvantages of being in a labor union is that you have to go along with the majority. When a contract is being negotiated if the majority votes for it, you are stuck with it like it or not. You may not get a promotion because of seniority even if you have more knowledge and education for a position. If another union is on strike, as a union member you cannot cross the picketline.

Does that help?