By Kavi Chahal, Communications Staff
Stewards are an essential resource for members with questions about what being an AUPE member offers. From how to navigate discipline and grievances, to updates on bargaining, to invitations to union events, there is a lot of essential information members need to know.
Fortunately, there are tools for stewards to help keep their fellow members in the loop.
1-on-1 conversations are crucial
1-on-1 conversations are the single best way to communicate with your fellow members. You can truly, deeply engage with a fellow worker to learn what they have to say and ensure they understand the information you’re sharing.
There is a sense of security and safety for members in talking to a steward who is committed to supporting them in the workplace. Being someone members can trust to have their back is a key part of what makes a steward a steward.
You can learn more about 1-on-1 conversations by clicking here.
Have you checked your inbox?
Sometimes members have more information available than they know. All you need to do is help them find it. AUPE Executive, Local and Chapter leadership, and AUPE resource staff regularly send members emails with information they need to know.
An average email inbox often has a daily flood of emails that people can’t always stay on top of. It can be overwhelming for anyone. Not to mention the dreaded automated spam filter that probably doesn’t understand that we are not a bot!
When you see that you’ve received an email with important information, reach out to your coworkers to prompt them to check their inboxes. You don’t necessarily need to talk them through the whole email, just let them know it’s there for them.
If you learn that a coworker didn’t receive an email, you can help ensure they get the next one! Direct them to www.aupe.org/myaupe to create a MyAUPE account.
Tack it up
Out of sight, out of mind? Making information visible and readily accessible is often all it takes to ensure people are staying up to date.
Every worksite should have a union board in a place visible to and frequented by members. This is a dedicated space for union activists like you to post important notices for members to see.
This may also take some prompting at first. Letting members know that there is a new item on the board and encouraging them to go take a look is a great first step. In no time at all, members will start checking in on their own.
Engaging posters are often available for union events and activities and are emailed contacts at worksites. In fact, there is a designed printable version of content attached to most union emails. All you need to do is print it out and tack it up!
We’re here to help
There are many ways you can help members stay informed and engaged, but we know you may not always know the answer. That's OK!
AUPE elected officials and resource staff are always here to support you in your work as a steward. If in doubt, you can always direct members to call the Member Resource Centre at 1-800-232-7284 with any questions.