How Are Labor Unions Successful?

A labor union has the power to make real changes within an organization. Successful labor unions don’t just push for better pay and benefits, they bring members together, build unity, and use their collective voices to make things happen. To do this, a union must be great at organizing, communicating, and making decisions that represent their entire membership.

What’s the best way to do this? Union voting software from ElectionBuddy can streamline how members voice their opinions on important issues, such as wages or working conditions. 

The Importance of Negotiation

Research shows that unions have been successful in improving wages and healthcare while establishing generational wealth for working-class families for generations. This is done through hard work, skilled negotiators, and committed members. 

When it comes time to advocate for its members, successful union leaders must know how to start labor negotiations effectively, emphasizing the priorities of their members. The more unified the collective group is, the more likely they are to achieve change.

What makes negotiations successful for unions? It all boils down to union elections. When members actively participate in the election process, it empowers them to choose leaders who reflect their values and vote on key issues that impact their lives.

Depending on the union, election processes can vary. This is why developing labor union election strategies is one of the most important steps to ensuring that every voice is heard and the union fully represents their best interests.

Building Membership Engagement

A union is only as successful as its leadership and membership. It starts with transparent, open communication with members feeling informed, heard, and appreciated. How do you do this? Hosting regular meetings, providing frequent updates, and giving plenty of opportunities for members to speak up about issues that matter are great methods.

However, engaging members goes beyond just good communication. It’s about building a coalition and fueling a sense of community and ownership within the union. When members feel valued and involved, they are more likely to participate in elections and advocacy efforts. 

Most of the time, union members want the same thing–better pay, adequate benefits, and safe working conditions for themselves and their peers. This is why a strong, successful union encourages members to rally together so they may reach their shared dreams.

Streamlining the Election Process

Think about how easy it is for your members to vote. How many hoops do members need to jump through to cast their ballot? Are you using outdated voting methods that make elections more complicated?

ElectionBuddy has an easy-to-use platform that follows Department of Labor standards and lets unions create ballots based on their needs. It can be used to gather votes on topics like setting up a leadership nomination process, ratifying contracts, or organizing strike votes. No matter what you need, there are plenty of customization options.

Voting is also incredibly secure and accessible. Members can opt to vote via the old-school paper ballot or online with their phone or computer. This makes it possible for everyone to vote in a way that works best for them. 

Plus, it’s super easy to keep your membership in the loop with important updates. ElectionBuddy makes it possible to reach every member by phone, mail, email, and texts. Technology like ElectionBuddy can simplify and streamline your union’s election process, boost voter turnout, and better engage your membership so each voting process is a success!