Every employee’s contribution matters in a small business. Unfortunately, a smaller workforce can also leave employees vulnerable to a variety of challenges. They may receive lower wages. Workers may have limited job security. They may be subject to arbitrary management based on personalities rather than policies.
Thankfully, employees in small businesses can take steps to improve their workplace. One powerful way workers can improve conditions is by organizing a union. What should workers know about unionizing while working in smaller companies?
How many people need to be involved to form a union?
Many people associate union organization with larger companies or statewide organizations. However, even a small workforce could use the power of collective bargaining to improve their experience on the job.
The legal definition of collective bargaining includes groups of almost any size. Forming a union only requires that at least 30 percent of the workforce signs union cards. In a smaller company, this group can consist of just “two or more employees.”
How can forming a union benefit the workers in a small company?
Unionizing can support workers in many different ways. Some of these benefits include:
- Unionized workers can make their voices heard. Fighting alone can be daunting. Working together can help unionized workers address the issues they see.
- Unionized workers may receive higher pay and better benefits. Unionizing has the potential to raise wages for members. A 2023 report from the United States Department of the Treasury showed that members’ pay increased by between 10 and 15 percent. Unions can also help workers negotiate better benefits like pension plans or health insurance.
- Unions can create greater workplace safety. Unions can help employees be aware of their right to a safe workplace. They can also provide additional support when a business needs to improve workplace safety. In fact, nursing homes with unionized workers are over 30 percent more likely to comply with reporting laws.
- Unionized workers have greater access to professional training. Employees at small businesses may have limited opportunities for career growth. Thankfully, unions often invest in their members’ training and professional development. This commitment to growth can help workers acquire new skills and advance in their careers.
- Unionized workers often have greater job security. A union may also help workers establish clear processes for addressing disputes. This can provide peace of mind and a more stable working environment for employees of small businesses.
- Workers can create an environment of fairness and respect. At the heart of union organization is the pursuit of a fair and respectful workplace. Union representation ensures that employees’ rights are recognized and upheld, fostering a culture where individuals feel valued and heard.
The specific goals a union achieve are based on the priorities of the workers involved. As a result, the benefits you could see from organizing a union are unique to the concerns you and other employees have.
Creating a union requires dedication. However, the potential benefits for employees are significant. By seeking experienced guidance of an attorney who has been through the organizing and negotiating process and working together toward a common goal, workers at businesses of any size can improve their work and their well-being.