When those you represent are organized, it is easier for you to act. That’s why recruiting members is worthwhile.
Imagine a situation where a problem arises at your workplace: salaries do not match what was agreed, or working time practices violate the law. Or if there are issues in your work community that you would like to improve. If only one employee raises the issue, it may go unnoticed and nothing changes. But when the matter is brought forward by a shop steward supported by an organized group of employees and the union, the issue is taken seriously, and a solution is found more quickly.
In everyday life, organization also shows in support. When your colleagues are members, they understand their rights and support you in your role as shop steward. In change negotiations or salary discussions, there is a huge difference between having a scattered group behind you or a united membership. The union can also assist the shop steward more effectively the better organized the workplace is.
The degree of organization also matters in collective agreement negotiations. If the union can say it represents 95% of the sector’s employees, it is listened to at the negotiating table, in law-making, and in the media. This directly affects the terms you monitor at your workplace and your operating conditions as an employee representative.
Unions train shop stewards, provide advice and networks – but this system only works if unions have members. The higher the degree of organization, the more benefit it brings to you as a shop steward.
Union membership is especially important for young and internationally based employees who may not yet have experience of working life or knowledge of their rights. As a shop steward, you have the opportunity to tell them about the benefits of membership and make a difference.
That’s why recruiting members is worthwhile. Every new member strengthens you and the entire work community. Remember that YTN also rewards employee representatives for bringing in new members! Read more about the rewards for recommenders here (in Finnish)
