When looking at the learning materials for this week, it makes it seem like there would be no reason not to join a union. It promises improvement in many aspects of your work-life, it ensures that you are protected from retaliation from your employer and makes sure that they are paid properly based on the work they do. Even researching further provides similar information on the types of benefits, adding on the fact that it provides job security within many cases automated promotions in place proportional to time and work done within the company. However, these benefits don’t come without risk to multiple different factors in one’s life.
To begin to work in a union at a company that doesn’t support it, there needs to be an equal agreement between the union of employees and the employer. This is a long process that involves multiple disagreements about contractual obligations each party will be held to, however when it is finally agreed to a legally binding contract is created that outlines the necessary benefits and compensation workers will receive while under the union. Additionally, it is common for unions to take a small percentage of the earnings of the workers, usually around 1 to 2 percent (Legalclarity).
While negotiating can lead to a contractual agreement between parties, very often will an employer refuse to comply with the wishes of the workers, causing the workers to refuse to work and go on strike. Often times this can last for multiple months on end, with the financial risk increasing the longer the workers must strike for to receive what they want. This also leads to a loss in individuality as a worker, as you must conform to the wants and expectations of the union.
Overall, I think joining a union has more benefits than it is detrimental to ones working experience, and if the one has the ability to strike for better wages without it causing immediate harm to the individual it would be beneficial for them to fight for what they truly need.
References:
1.“Is It Good to Be in a Union? Pros, Cons & Trade-Offs.” LegalClarity, 15 Mar. 2026, legalclarity.org/is-it-good-to-be-in-a-union-pros-cons-trade-offs/. Accessed 16 Mar. 2026.