How Union Contracts Could Hurt Exceptional Performers

Union contracts are often promoted as fair and equitable. In reality, they can make it harder for leaders to recognize and reward exceptional performers. A one-size-fits-all contract means everyone is treated the same, whether you go above and beyond for your patients or do the bare minimum.

The problem is that union priorities don’t always align with the priorities of nurses, patients, or the hospital. For example:

• Seniority over skill: Advancement and scheduling decisions are often based on years worked, not expertise or performance.

• Protecting poor performers: The grievance and arbitration process makes it difficult to address performance issues that affect patient safety, teamwork, and morale.

• Uniform raises: Pay increases are determined by a union contract and are the same for everyone, regardless of individual effort or contribution, leaving exceptional performers undervalued.

• Accountability: Union contracts often limit accountability, which could put patient care at risk.

Rather than recognizing and rewarding merit, hard work, and skill, unions often create a system that treats everyone the same, regardless of effort or performance.