Managing relationships in a unionized environment

Establishing and maintaining good relationships with union stewards and employees contributes to a positive labour relations environment, and a healthier and productive work place.

Establishing a good relationship with the union steward

At the beginning of your relationship, before there is a grievance, meet privately to agree that:

• Both parties are bound by the collective agreement, each having rights and obligations
• Both parties are bound by the Standards of Conduct for public service employees
• Both parties are to be treated with respect, regardless of grievance outcomes
• Both parties may have different views but will strive to agree on a middle ground
• It is normal for either person to make mistakes. Both parties will admit to mistakes, correct them and move forward
• If the issue does not have a middle ground, stalemates can be resolved in other ways
• Patience and time is needed to evaluate each other’s position
• It is a normal for supervisors to ask the union steward for help resolving difficult issues
• It is normal for the union steward to tell a supervisor or manager about potential employee issues

Maintaining a good relationship with the union steward

To maintain a positive working relationship:

• Be objective at all times
• Value the employee's point of view
• Present facts honestly
• Inform the union steward of important decisions
• Only make commitments you can keep
• Be prepared to discuss some matters in private
• Fully explain the reason behind a grievance denial and include specific collective agreement references