If A Company Lacks a Conscience, A Union Will Find It For Them
Robert Barber, Developing Exceptional Leaders
Human Capital Advisor | Leadership Trainer | AI for Leaders | HR Exec. | Entrepreneur | Exec Coach | Strategic Planner | SHRM Cert Provider | Best Selling Author | Univ Professor | Speaker | EE Engineer
In 2001, I assumed an HR leadership role that encompassed an extensive scope of responsibilities. Over time, the sites under my supervision expanded from 2 states to 26, fueled by acquisitions, M&A activities, and startups. These sites accounted for thousands of employees, some in exceedingly remote locations. Amidst all this growth, our paramount challenge was ensuring the consistent instillation and replication of our desired company culture throughout the system. Though culture wasn't a direct metric in my performance evaluations, virtually every measure indirectly traced back to the central question: "Do we have the right culture?"
Our dedication to culture was put to the test particularly in sites with union-represented employees who had been there for generations, as well as in locations that were on the radar of some of the most aggressive unions looking to organize. Reflecting on our journey, two achievements stand out:
Given the current headlines concerning the UAW and automakers, I felt compelled to share some insights gleaned from my experiences and challenges faced over the years.
The workforce realm and employee/employer relationship continues to undergo a significant transition. As the lines between personal and professional lives blur, the concept of corporate conscience emerges to the forefront. When organizations neglect this moral compass, they inadvertently create a void, which is increasingly being filled by unions. A recent example is the brewing tension between auto workers and automakers, with the UAW nearing a strike.
Why Employees Turn to Unions
The unionization of a workforce isn't a spontaneous decision. It's a calculated choice driven by specific factors:
The Misconception of Union-Employer Dynamics
While unions play a vital role, they aren't always the first choice for many:
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The Top 3 Ingredients for a Healthy Employer-Employee Relationship
To reduce the need for unions, companies must foster environments where employees feel valued. I call it a "Culture of Ask":
Fostering a Conscious Corporate Culture
Companies aiming for long-term success must prioritize their cultural ethos:
In light of recent events, with UPS and with the UAW's impending strike as a response to perceived injustices, the need for companies to introspect and adjust their internal dynamics has never been clearer. It serves as a stark reminder that the absence of a corporate conscience can have tangible, often severe, repercussions.
Is your company's conscience in tune with its employees? If not, it might be time for a culture check.