ABC-SEMI Southeast Michigan Contractors Issue 4, 2021

Southeast Michigan Contractors Issue 4 2021 13 to work toward the creation of a fair workplace without union interference. Employers can take proactive steps, so employees don’t feel the need for union representation. Consider these steps to keep your company union-free: » Take a hard look at employee satis- faction levels. Maintain open lines of communication. Dissatisfied employ- ees and festering workplace issues are fertile ground for union organizers. » Conduct an objective workplace audit, focusing on employees’ views of management’s responsiveness, com- pensation levels, and provisions for workplace health and safety. Listening and responding fairly to employee feedback can help ensure that a union doesn’t find a welcome reception. » Review anti-union policies. Certain employer policies can help prevent unionization. To be effective, however, policies must be in place before there is any organizing activity. Policies to consider or review include those covering visitors at work, solicitation of fellow employees (orally or via e-mail), distribution of literature, and employee dispute and problem-solving options. » Train supervisors on unions and labor law. Cover the nature of unionization and labor law limitations on man- agement conduct. Training can help managers avoid making mistakes that could damage your union-free status. “At ABC, we believe that merit shop companies have earned the right and have taken all the risks with their companies to have a level playing field to compete on.”