Working with Labor Unions

Key Takeaways

• The grievance process is a formal process to address any complaints about contract violations.
• The grievance process varies from contract to contract. It is an important part of the contract that ensures a fair process for both union members and management.
• HR is normally involved in this process, since it has intimate knowledge of the contract and laws that guide the contract.
• The grievance process can consist of any number of steps. First, the complaint is discussed with the manager, employee, and union representative. If no solution occurs, the grievance is put into writing by the union. Then HR, management, and the union discuss the process, sometimes in the form of a hearing in which both sides are able to express their opinion.
• Management then expresses its decision in writing to the union.
• If the union decides to escalate the grievance, the grievance may be brought to the national union for a decision. At this point, an arbitrator may be brought in, suitable to both parties, to make the final binding decision.
• There are four main types of grievances. First, the individual grievance is filed when one member of the union feels mistreated. A group grievance occurs when several members of the union feel they have been mistreated and file a grievance as a group. A principle grievance may be filed on behalf of the union and is usually based on a larger issue, such as a policy or contract issue. A union or policy grievance may be filed if the employee does not wish to file individually.
• Grievances should not be taken personally and should be considered a fair way in which to solve problems that can come up between the union and management.