Union Leadership: The Role of the Shop Steward

Abstract

Abstract In the previous chapter we considered the predictors and consequences of members’ participation in union activities. This chapter now extends that discussion by focusing specifically on the topic of union leadership and its influence on the unionization process. There are several reasons why a specific focus on union leadership is warranted. First, union leadership is the highest form of participation in union activities. Acceptance of a leadership role within the union implies a greater involvement in union activities than do other forms of participation such as voting in union elections or attending union meet­ings (Nicholson, 1976). Moreover, participation in a leadership role in the union necessitates participation in other union activities including decision making (Anderson, 1979). Second, union leaders facilitate the involvement of rank and file members in the union. Members’ participation in union activities varies with shop stewards’ interpersonal skills (Kahn & Tannenbaum, 1954) and accessibility (Nicholson et al., 1980). Attitudes toward the union, such as union commitment, predict members’ participation and, in themselves, are influenced by the leadership styles of union officials (Fullagar, McCoy, & Shull, 1992). As the individuals responsible for the orientation of new members and the dissemination of information to members, union leaders are critical for the development of union relevant attitudes and behaviors and union democracy (Kahn & Tannenbaum, 1954).