Over the last few years, labor unions in the US seem to have lost their appeal. The unions have registered drastic declines in their membership and this has raised questions about whether they are still relevant. Despite having lost much of their influence, labor unions remain important. When they join labor unions, employees are usually driven by the desire for representation. Labor unions serve to protect the interests of their members. For example, employees can leverage the power and influence of labor unions to impose pressure on companies for better pay and improved working conditions (Jeanty, 2017). Furthermore, unions play a crucial role in speaking for employees when conflict arises. In essence, most employees turn to labor unions for tough negotiations with their employers.
I have never been part of a labor union. This is because I have felt that my employers have treated me fairly and membership was therefore unnecessary. However, if I were to join a union, I would expect to enjoy a number of benefits. These benefits include negotiating better pay and working conditions and guaranteeing protections when I choose to participate in such industrial action as strikes (Noe et al., 2018). Basically, union membership would help me to feel that I am not alone and that I have the support of my colleagues and other employees. While I am generally excited about membership given the numerous benefits that it promises, I also have some fears. For example, I understand that members are required to pay dues to their unions. Since the workplace has become better for most employees, I think that it is rather difficult for the unions to justify the demands for dues.
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In closing, unions continue to play a vital role in agitating for the better treatment and compensation for employees. However, they have been losing membership and their influence. If they are to retain their relevance, unions need to modernize and respond to the changes taking place in the workplace. It is also important for the unions to be more aggressive in pushing for improved working conditions and better pay for employees. As they do this, they will persuade more employees to become members.
References
Noe, R., Hollenbeck, J., Gerhart, B., & Wright, P. (2018). Fundamentals of human resource management. 7 th Edition. New York: McGraw Hill.
Jeanty, J. (2017). Collective bargaining & employee rights. Biz Fluent. Retrieved May 21, 2019 from https://bizfluent.com/info-8275359-collective-bargaining-employee-rights.html
