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The meaning and making of union delegate networks

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 January 2023

David Peetz ,
Georgina Murray ,
Olav Muurlink  and
Maggie May
David Peetz*
Affiliation:
Griffith University, Australia
Georgina Murray
Affiliation:
Griffith University, Australia
Olav Muurlink
Affiliation:
Central Queensland University, Australia
Maggie May
Affiliation:
Griffith University, Australia
*
David Peetz, Department of Employment Relations and Human Resources, Griffith University, Kessels Road Nathan, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia. Email: d.peetz@griffith.edu.au
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Abstract

Networks are a subject of growing research interest. Yet union networks, particularly networks of delegates, and ways to build them, are still poorly understood. This is a study of the meaning that workplace union delegates assign to networks of support. It explores the characteristics of effective delegate and union networks and influences upon them. Effective networks are a combination of strong and weak ties, such that delegates sometimes do not recognise they are part of a network. Our three-stage research methodology involved delegate focus groups, a paper-based self-completion questionnaire of recently trained delegates (N=473) and a follow-up telephone survey (N=145). It found that organisers were key to creation of internal workplace networks (although they did not necessarily establish them) and in providing a bridge for delegates with external networks. They were the key support person for many delegates. Networks took a variety of forms. Only a minority were formalised. A majority were mainly internal to the workplace. Social media were rarely used, with little intention of using them more, and were, we suspect, underutilised.

Keywords

J51Informal networksnetworksnetwork-buildingsocial capitalsocial mediatrade unionsunion delegatesunion networksunion organisersweak tiesworkplace relations
Type
Articles
Information
The Economic and Labour Relations Review , Volume 26 , Issue 4: Special Collection: Union Organising and Revitalisation , December 2015 , pp. 596 - 613
Copyright
Copyright © The Author(s) 2015

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