"Unions have been the only powerful and effective voice working people have ever had in the history of this country."
--Bruce Springsteen
AFSCME Shop Stewards
AFSCME members bring different skills, abilities, strengths and
experiences to the job of union steward. Some stewards are terrific
organizers while others are great at motivating people. Some enjoy
representing members in the grievance procedure and others eagerly
tackle on-the-job issues by developing new tactics and strategies. With
their energy, enthusiasm and commitment, AFSCME stewards play a
key role in creating a vigorous local union.
Leadership can be defined as the ability to motivate a group of people
to act in pursuit of its common interests and goals.
AFSCME members look to the steward as a leader in the workplace.
They turn to the steward when they are seeking information or when
they need some help in solving a problem. To be a leader, the steward
must understand the diversity of the union’s membership — cultural,
racial, gender, sexual orientation, age differences — and promote unity
to put a stop to management attempts to divide workers.
As a steward, you must have credibility (defined simply as being
“worthy of belief or trust”) with union members, co-workers, and the
managers and supervisors with whom you attempt to resolve workplace
issues and problems. Usually, credibility isn’t easily granted — it must be
earned over time.
You must be able to listen to the problems, concerns and issues of
members and co-workers. By identifying workplace problems, stewards
can engage members in developing solutions. Listening is a skill that
must be developed and practiced.
Stewards must be able to motivate members to take action on workplace
concerns and problems. Stewards who try to “do it all” become
overburdened, overwhelmed and stressed out. Stewards who do it all are
not involving other members in the union. High member participation
is a sign of a strong union.
First and foremost, stewards should know their contract or work
rules. But just as important, stewards should know the issues and
problems affecting members, and all about the union. A big part of
communication is your ability to share knowledge and information in
a way that helps workers understand how and why issues affect them.
Informed and educated members become active members.
If you are interested in helping your fellow workers by becoming an AFSCME Steward, contact your local representative or Chapter Chair. AFSCME provides monthly training classes to help you succeed as well as training manuals and assistance.
For more information
contact us at information@afscme2629.org
Join our Internet Mail List for AFSCME Shop Stewards. Weekly Steward tips, training information and special communications for Stewards.
