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 is notification of an upcoming vote. Members will receive regular communications from the union preceding any type of election. They will be informed of members who are on the ballot for leadership, bylaw proposals, and any other pertinent information that corresponds to the vote. 

Eligibility to vote during elections and meetings is typically universal for all members so long as they are in good standing. This means they are current on their membership dues, aren’t under sanction, and haven’t had their membership revoked. 

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 unions must pay dues for their membership. These dues are used to fund the union and represent its members both legally and professionally. In a way, this is equivalent to taxation, similar to how any democracy functions. A union is nothing without its members. If all voices are not heard, poor decisions can impact all members. 

Here at ElectionBuddy, we believe in the democratic process. This is why we offer best-in-class secure online voting systems to assist trade unions and any other organizations in conducting free and fair elections. Everything from notification, voting, tabulation, and results announcement are available through an easy-to-use online system. Let us help your trade organization be as efficient and transparent as possible!