Before You See the Supervisor - Prepare Your Case and Ask Yourself These Questions:

• Have I gotten all the facts from the member?
• Do I have all the other information I need?
• Have I checked the contract?
• Have I explained the case to the member?
• What questions do I want to ask the supervisor?
• What points do I want to get across to the supervisor? What should I expect the supervisor will argue?

 

REMEMBER: In the Grievance Procedure the Supervisor and Steward are Equals.

 

The supervisor and the steward share the responsibility for settling grievances. Try to establish a friendly but businesslike relationship. There is no reason to waiver or to have a chip on your shoulder. If the supervisor is unreasonable, you can always go to the next step. Ask him/her about the incident that gave rise to the grievance. They may have facts you don't.

 

State the Facts and Tell the Supervisor How the Union Wants the Grievance Settled.

 

IF they try to sidetrack you by discussing other issues . . . Let the supervisor talk, but don't be misled and lose sight of your position. Stick to your case and bring him or them back in a tactful but firm way.

 

IF they want to trade -- you win one grievance and the supervisor wins one . . .  Insist on settling each grievance on its merits. This is the only just way to settle a grievance.

 

IF they make you angry -- Beware!  Few people can think straight when they are angry, this is a victory for the supervisor if you lose your temper.

 

IF the supervisor stalls -- Try to push for an immediate answer. If you cannot get a decision, try to set a definite time, as early as possible, for the answer.

 

IF you and the aggrieved member disagree . . . Don't ever disagree in front of the supervisor. Determine the way you will present your case before you see the supervisor. If you hit a snag, adjourn. You have a right to do this.

 

IF you win your point . . .  Once you've won, stop talking.  Don't continue to hash it over. Be sure to inform the member about it if they weren’t with you.

 

IF you can't settle the grievance . . .  Take the case to the next step in grievance procedure right away. Let the supervisor know you are going to do this. Be sure to keep the member informed.