It will take 7 days
for the labor board to certify the election; during that time either side has
the opportunity to file an objection to the conduct of the election; it doesn’t
happen very often -if there were to be one, we would request the board would rule
in a timely manner.
What we do in
the meantime- the IAM will be assembling the team that will be
facilitating the contract negotiations going forward- business representative,
representatives from the grand lodge, etc.; those who work solely on negotiating
and servicing contracts. As soon as the election is certified and
meetings can be scheduled you will nominate and elect your committee from
within to serve on the negotiating team so some from the shop floor are present
and provide vital insight. At the same time the union will also send out
employee surveys to get an in-depth read on the key issues. The union also
makes requests for information from the company that is required prior to
entering negotiations, etc. Bottom-line is, they will get things moving
ASAP.
All we ask is that
everyone do everything they can to live by the rules of the employee handbook
until we get a contract; that is what they’re supposed to live by until then as
well. Your protection against retaliation extends beyond the election so
if there is any head-hunting be sure to document who, when, where, and who the
witnesses are and get in contact with one of the union reps.
We hope there can
be some healing between those for and those against so everyone can realize it
is in their best interests to come together and get the best 1st
contract possible. Companies always seek to exploit divisions amongst
employees, so it’s best to come together and support your negotiating team by
sending a clear message you want a fair contract.
