Common Anti-Union Campaign Tactics
Disinformation
Probably the most common anti-union tactic is disinformation. Broadly speaking, hospital management is not legally prevented from making false or misleading statements about unionization. It’s important to always think critically, analyze the information presented to you, and consider context.
One-on-one and captive audience meetings
If your hospital hires “union avoidance” consultants, they will likely coach the managers to have “friendly chats” with you to discourage you from joining 121RN. They will try to exploit the trust and rapport you may have with your direct supervisors, to use emotion and social pressure to persuade you. In addition, your employer may hold “captive audience” meetings. These are scheduled lectures to a group of employees about the “dangers” of collective bargaining. They may be led by a hired anti-union consultant, or one of your hospital executives. In any case, always think critically about the information you are receiving. Managers and supervisors can be required by their superiors to communicate anti-union talking points.
Disinformation
Probably the most common anti-union tactic is disinformation. Broadly speaking, hospital management is not legally prevented from making false or misleading statements about unionization. It’s important to always think critically, analyze the information presented to you, and consider context.
One-on-one and captive audience meetings
If your hospital hires “union avoidance” consultants, they will likely coach the managers to have “friendly chats” with you to discourage you from joining 121RN. They will try to exploit the trust and rapport you may have with your direct supervisors, to use emotion and social pressure to persuade you. In addition, your employer may hold “captive audience” meetings. These are scheduled lectures to a group of employees about the “dangers” of collective bargaining. They may be led by a hired anti-union consultant, or one of your hospital executives. In any case, always think critically about the information you are receiving. Managers and supervisors can be required by their superiors to communicate anti-union talking points.
False promises
Your hospital may try to discourage unionization by promising, hinting, or implying that choosing not to unionize could lead to raises or other benefits. It’s important to recognize that promises are not guarantees. They might even respond to your organizing efforts by giving raises or making other improvements. However, the only way to secure raises, benefits, and protections that are enforceable and lasting is through a union contract.
Fear and division
When you organize, you and your colleagues collectively take control of your life at work and steer it in a new direction. A successful organizing campaign is built on hope, community, and a positive vision for the future of your workplace. Conversely, employers often attempt to disrupt the momentum of an organizing campaign by spreading rumors that sow division and painting a dire picture of the future to spread fear.
