Unionization Talking Points

What are some of the points that can be raised when design and environmental professionals' employees ask about unionization? A new publication addresses what to do when employees ask about unionization. The publication, Unionization Talking Points, was developed by ASFE/The Best People on Earth. Many ASFE member firms employ field representatives who have recently become the targets of trade union organizing drives in Illinois. Union organizing activity is reported in other states as well and, according to ASFE executive vice president John Bachner, ?EUR??,,????'??We are not at all convinced that trade unions' ambitions are limited to field representatives alone.?EUR??,,????'??

Unionization Talking Points notes that the National Labor Relations Act limits what employers can say to employees, and when they can say it. As such, employers should obtain legal guidance before launching an information campaign. The publication encourages firms to educate employees about unionization before an organizing drive starts, focusing on issues such as higher pay, seniority benefits, the exercise of independent judgment and pursuit of personal ambition, and employees' ability to ?EUR??,,????'??vote out?EUR??,,????'?? the union if they change their mind.

Available at $60 per copy, Unionization Talking Points may be ordered through the ASFE's website (www.asfe.org) or by contacting ASFE Publications Manager Alpha Moore (301/565-2733 or alpha@asfe.org).