Tips on recruiting
There are many barriers that stop people joining a union. Effective organisers aim to remove as many of these as possible.
There are a number of techniques you can adopt to help.
- Presentation: Consider how you present yourself to a potential member and the language you use. You need to be assertive and clear in your arguments, but not pushy.
- Opening gambits: 'UNISON is concerned about' or 'some people have contacted us' are good ways to start a discussion. You could use the UNISON TV ad to ask someone if they've seen it.
- Language: A good technique is to use inclusive language such as 'our union' or 'your union'. Avoid union jargon as far as possible.
- Examples: Illustrate your arguments with real-life examples of how the union has been effective in their workplace.
- Conversation: Take the time to learn about the worker and the workplace. Ask them how long they have worked there and what their job or role is. See dialogue tips below.
- Issues: Identify issues affecting them. Start with general questions before moving to the details. 'How are things here?' and 'What is good about working here?' offer the chance to move forward.
- Specifics: Don't promise a non-member things, but do highlight areas of hope. If you're aware of an issue in the workplace, ask the potential member about it. Be honest about the union.
- Success: Once you're on the recruitment road, tell your branch and other members. Publicise recruitment successes. If you turn out to be really successful, let the rest of UNISON know by getting in touch with your branch, regional office or InFocus.
- Organise: Be organised. Keep a list of all members and potential members in your constituency. Make sure you are told when new employees start work.
- Materials: Keep and use UNISON recruitment materials, and consider producing your own to supplement these. Always carry application forms - you never know when you'll need them.
- Ideas: For more ideas, download 10 Good Reasons to Join UNISON
Face-to-face recruiting: dialogue tips
Opening gambit
"Have you seen the UNISON advert on TV? What did you think of it?"
"I have been talking to some other people and they think..."
"We have been trying to get people together to..."
"UNISON is concerned about..."
What to say next
Identify issues. Start by using general questions and then narrow the focus:
"How are things going here at work?"
"What has changed here recently/over the last...?"
"What would you change if you could?"
Learn about the worker and workplace:
"How long have you been working here?"
"What is your job/role?"
If you are already aware of an issue, use this to open up the conversation:
"Are you worried about..."
"What is happening about..."
"How do you think you and your workmates could be affected by..."
Listen and ask questions for at least 70% of the time when you first meet a potential recruit.
Bear in mind that potential members are more likely to be recruited by colleagues they know and trust.
