How to unionize your workplace.
Unionizing is less about a single big moment and more about a series of careful steps: finding out who's with you, agreeing on what matters, and acting as a group once you're strong enough. Here is a practical checklist.
The checklist
- 01
Check whether you're covered
Most private-sector employees in the U.S. are covered by the National Labor Relations Act. Supervisors, independent contractors, agricultural and domestic workers are generally not, and public-sector workers fall under state law. Knowing your coverage first tells you which rules and which agency apply.
- 02
Find out who else wants change — quietly
Before any meeting or group chat, learn whether coworkers share your concerns. One-on-one, off the clock, on personal devices. The goal is to discover real support without making yourself the visible leader too early.
- 03
Agree on a short list of issues
Pick two or three problems that most people would sign on to: pay, scheduling, staffing, safety, respect. Shared, specific issues build support far better than general talk about unions.
- 04
Form a representative committee
Gather a small group covering every shift, role and department. The committee shares decisions and conversations so no single person carries the risk or becomes the target.
- 05
Define your bargaining unit
Decide who the union would represent — one location or several, which job titles. List every person in that unit and track who is supportive, undecided or opposed.
- 06
Get support from an existing union, or go independent
Established unions can offer organizers, legal help and bargaining experience. Independent unions keep full control with workers. Speak to more than one option before choosing.
- 07
Build a clear majority
In the U.S., authorization cards from at least 30% of the unit are needed to request an NLRB election, but most campaigns aim for well over half — often around 70% — before filing, because support tends to dip once the employer responds.
- 08
Ask for recognition or file a petition
Go public as a group: ask the employer to voluntarily recognize the union, or file a petition with the NLRB for an election. Prepare the committee for employer meetings and messaging beforehand.
- 09
Vote, then negotiate together
A majority of votes cast wins. Winning obligates the employer to bargain in good faith — it does not guarantee any particular result. Staying organized is what carries a first contract over the line.
Where Unison fits
Step 2 is where most efforts stall: nobody wants to be first. On Unison you can find your workplace, start or join a campaign, and pledge “Count me in” under a random handle — your real name is never shown to coworkers or your employer. Unison is a free tool, not a union, and does not provide legal advice.
Common questions
How long does it take to unionize a workplace?
It varies widely. Quiet early organizing often takes several months. Once a petition is filed with the NLRB in the U.S., elections are commonly held within a few weeks, though disputes can stretch that. Negotiating a first contract afterward can take a year or more.
Can a small workplace unionize?
Yes. Under U.S. law, even a unit of two or more eligible employees can seek union representation, as long as the employer falls under NLRB jurisdiction. Small units can be easier to organize but are also easier for an employer to monitor, so discretion matters.
What is a bargaining unit?
It is the group of workers a union would represent — for example, all non-supervisory baristas at one store, or all hourly associates at one warehouse. The unit must share a 'community of interest', such as similar pay, duties and supervision. Supervisors and managers are generally excluded.
Can my employer recognize the union without an election?
Yes. An employer can voluntarily recognize a union when a majority of workers show support, often through signed cards. Many employers refuse and insist on an NLRB election instead.
Does unionizing cost money?
Organizing itself usually costs workers nothing. Dues normally begin only after a first contract is ratified, and members typically vote on that contract.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Labor law differs by country, state and sector. For advice about your situation, contact a labor attorney, worker center, or union organizer.