Union organizers can and will promise you anything to get you to support unionization.
However, what you’re unlikely to hear from them are the downsides of union representation – how it directly impacts you and our workplace.
Unions Cost Money … Yours
Union representation has a hefty price tag. Here are a few examples of the financial obligations you may encounter with membership:
Union dues (click here to calculate your union dues)
Initiation fees
Reinstatement fees
Union assessments
Union fines
Dues Calculator
Union dues and fees can really add up over time.
Potential Loss of Flexibility
Union contracts typically contain many work rules that tie a health system’s hands when dealing with its employees. For example, our ability to offer a flexible schedule and help employees achieve work-life balance could be severely affected by typical seniority provisions in union contracts, which are based on how long you’ve worked for SSM Health, and nothing else. We don’t think that’s a fair system for anyone. We think treating our people as individuals (rather than as numbers) is better.
Potential Loss of Promotional Opportunities
Under most union contracts, promotions and raises are also made strictly on the basis of seniority. Merit is not a consideration. So, our hardest-working employees may not be eligible for advancement if someone with more seniority wants the same job. We prefer a system like the one we have now, where hardworking employees can use their talents to get ahead.
Potential Loss of Personal Freedom & Individuality
Union members are required to abide by the union’s rules. These are usually outlined in the union’s bylaws and/or constitution. Union members can be subject to disciplinary rules and procedures, including union trials, fines, suspension, or even expulsion from the union. Employees might also be stuck with decisions the union makes about what’s in the contract, or whether to go on strike.
Union Rules & Regulations
Union members are expected to abide by SEIU Wisconsin's bylaws and the Service Employees International Union’s constitution. You are allowed (and encouraged) to ask the union questions regarding their rules and procedures.
Change of Culture
Unions often create conflict and bring an atmosphere of divisiveness.
Many former union members attest to the “us vs. them” mentality that often comes with having a union.
Unions can impact teamwork among coworkers and stand between you and your leader when it comes to trying to find common-sense solutions to routine concerns.
Potential Loss of Benefits & Possibility of Strikes
Despite the costs and disadvantages, unionized employees have no guarantee of getting “more” or better terms and conditions of employment through the negotiation process.
In fact, you could lose many of the aspects of your job that you enjoy today. If/when a union is unable to deliver on its promises, it sometimes draws employees into costly and disruptive strikes.