How To Win A First Contract!

Companies try many different tactics to weaken a union during first contract negotiations, but the most common one is to stall the negotiations as much as possible. If the employer witnesses any division within the bargaining unit, that some workers are vocally not supportive of their union, or that the workers are frustrated and pressuring the bargaining committee, they will take that as a green light to double down on their union busting efforts. The best way to combat this and many other employer tactics is to realize that when you all come together and are willing to take action, nothing can stop you! 

Your employer will be a lot more likely to come to the realization that they have to bargain with your union if they see a group of workers that are united around improving each other’s lives and are willing to take action when necessary! The solidarity you all display during first contract negotiations will determine how hard the employer will fight you. This is why it is very important for your unit's voluntary organizing committee (VOC) to continue to organize, grow, establish trust, and show they have all of their coworkers’ (regardless of how they voted) best interests in mind. 

REMEMBER: The power of your union is in your numbers! They can ignore one worker, they can ignore twenty, they cannot ignore all of you! If you all show the employer that you are willing to fight for what you’ve earned and a better life for you and your families, they will be a lot less likely to play hardball and stall the negotiations. 

Your bargaining committee has your best interests in mind, they are willing to sacrifice and fight for you, you must be willing to do the same for them. Do this, and all of you come out on top! You will have seasoned negotiators at the table and the entire UAW behind you, but the truth is, that will not matter if you do not stand with each other and are willing to fight for what you want. You all, are the power that makes the employer say yes when they want to say no. Stick together, trust your bargaining committee, take action when asked, and you all will win a great contract!