NEW YORK NURSE: May 2011

RNs at work

Leadership advice for a new delegate

I’m a new NYSNA delegate for my unit. In fact, this is the first time I’ve taken any type of leadership role in my union. I’m eager to learn and I want to do a good job. Do you have any leadership advice for me?

Building a strong labor movement at your facility begins with the delegate. A delegate’s willingness to assist members with work-related issues strengthens the union.

Here are a few guidelines to help you in your new leadership role:

Familiarize yourself with the contract. Know members’ rights under the contract and know the grievance time limits.
Attend NYSNA’s labor and health and safety workshops.
Establish yourself in your new position. Introduce yourself to the members and give them your contact information.
Inform members of the union communication process.
Share NYSNA’s role and accomplishments at your facility.
Encourage members to attend membership meetings.
Represent all members fairly.

A union delegate can do a lot to build unity. Delegates can mentor their members about the importance of union participation. A union’s success often depends on the attitudes and participation of its members.

A delegate who is familiar with the contract’s terms and condition of employment and their facility’s workplace issues can have a positive influence on the membership. And this, in turn, can help accomplish of union’s shared goals. Delegates can rely on NYSNA staff for support. So, don’t hesitate to ask for help!

The NYSNA EGW Program receives many inquiries each month from members who have problems in their workplaces. If you have a question about labor relations at your facility, contact your NYSNA nursing representative. If you have a question you think should be featured in this column, send it to: RNs at Work, NYSNA, 120 Wall Street, 23rd Floor, New York, N.Y. 10005.