Labor Unions can be a very powerful tool to support and secure one’s job for a long time. I personally do not know anyone that is within a labor union, therefore I had to do a little bit of research on the subject of my own. One of the major things that I found out is how nuanced and complex a union can be. Moreover, it costs a decent amount to be part of a community of that sort. Although, one thing that draws me to labor unions is their safer workplaces. According to The Week, labor unions generally create regulations for better and safe workplaces within the country. Another bonus to labor unions is the increase in productivity. Being able to have employees help make decisions about the workplace can increase business outcomes and others as well. Contrary to this within the union it seems like labor unions can provide less worker autonomy and favor seniority in the directions that are made. This can lead to unease with leadership because even though they may not agree with the decision that they made the employees are bound to those directions based on being part of a union.
Now, reflecting on my personal goals I do not think I would join a labor union because I think that they are still very complicated. I also enjoy a lot of autonomy with my work and do not like being bound by rules. Moreover, I think that I could use the 9% fee that is charged to better my investments rather than paying for dues to a membership that I do not know if I want. Maybe sometime later in my career I will reassess but as of right now I am convinced that I do not want to join a labor union. I am curious to see if my thoughts will change in the future.
I enjoyed this exercises and it certainly opened my eyes to what life is like in a labor union.
Source used:
Klawans, J. (2025, February 13). The pros and cons of labor unions. The Week. https://theweek.com/business/labor-unions-pros-cons
