Organizing Inside the Workplace

Internal organizing is the process of building union power by engaging members who are already in the union but may not be active.

Why Internal Organizing Matters:

• A contract is only as strong as the members' willingness to enforce it

• Management respects unions with active, engaged memberships

• Strong internal organization makes bargaining more powerful

Strategies:

1. One-on-One Conversations: The most powerful tool. Talk to every member individually about their concerns.

2. Build a Steward Network: Identify natural leaders on every shift, in every department.

3. Information Sharing: Keep members informed about union activities, wins, and ongoing issues.

4. Issue Campaigns: Pick winnable issues and mobilize members around them.

5. New Member Orientation: Meet every new employee and educate them about the union.

Mapping the Workplace:

• Identify leaders, supporters, neutral members, and opponents

• Track who you've talked to and their concerns

• Build relationships before you need them