What does recruiting involve?
Research confirms that first impressions of an organisation are influential. UNISON can build loyalty and commitment by creating positive experiences for new members by the quality of information we offer about ourselves and by the quality of induction sessions for the employer's new staff.
A steward's initial contact with new employees can have a significant influence on their perception of the union.
When Richard Smith started his first permanent job a year ago he knew virtually nothing about trade unions. Unsurprisingly, joining up was not on his to-do list.
"If someone hadn't approached me, I would never have joined," he says. "This is why stewards are so important and why they need to be informed on how to recruit."
Nothing beats a face-to-face chat, explaining the union's activities and all the benefits that come with membership.
