How Does Trade Organization Voting Work?

Voting is a key aspect of being a union member. Unions are democratic organizations that represent their members. Votes can be held for a variety of reasons and may occur a few times a year. 

Union membership rules usually do not require members to vote, but voting is highly encouraged as it is an opportunity for everyone’s voices to be heard. Trade organization voting typically has common procedures that are present across most organizations. 

When Are Votes Held?

Trade organizations and unions vote for the same reasons many democratic governments hold votes. Here are a few key circumstances:

• Electing union leadership: Voting to select individuals who will hold leadership positions within the union
• Approving collective bargaining agreements: Voting to approve or reject agreements between the union and the employer
• Decisions to go on strike: Voting to determine whether to initiate a strike as leverage in negotiations
• Making changes to the union's bylaws: Voting on amendments or modifications to the union's governing documents

Votes on smaller issues may also be held monthly, biannually, or in other meetings held periodically throughout the year. Occasionally, a union may decide to hold a referendum on a particular issue, though these are less common and usually involve matters of sudden concern. 

How Votes Are Held in Unions and Organizations

The first step in the voting process for trade organization votes is notifying members of the upcoming election. Members receive regular communications from the union before any vote, detailing candidates on the ballot for leadership roles, bylaw proposals, and other relevant information.

Eligibility to participate in trade organization votes is generally universal for all members in good standing. This includes being up to date on membership dues, not being under sanction, and having an active membership status.

Can a manager be part of a trade union and vote? Typically, no–supervisors can’t join unions because they represent the interests of the company rather than the employees, which creates a conflict of interest.

The method of voting can vary. For smaller organizations, votes may be held in person. Larger organizations, such as the Teamsters or United Auto Workers, may administer elections via mail-in voting. That said, many organizations have decided to move the majority of their voting online using secure platforms, such as those offered by ElectionBuddy. 

Once the vote is complete, the results are tabulated publicly for transparency. The results are announced and recorded in the company register. Changes to leadership, laws, or any decisions via referendum may be enacted immediately or at times defined by the voting process or the company’s bylaws. 

Voting is Fundamental to Unions

Members of trade organizations contribute dues to support the union’s activities, which include representing members' interests both legally and professionally. This system is akin to taxation in a democratic society, where the organization thrives on active member participation. Without the input of all its members, poor decisions can negatively impact everyone.

So, how does trade organization voting work? At ElectionBuddy, we champion the democratic process by providing secure, top-tier online voting systems tailored for trade organizations. Our platform streamlines the entire process—notification, voting, tabulation, and results announcement—through an intuitive online system. Let us help your trade organization ensure efficient, transparent, and fair elections!