How Can We Appoint Worker Representatives to Streamline Communication in Our Plant?

We are a Consumer Durable Company and have a small manufacturing plant with around 20 workers. This small group is again divided into 2 groups of equal numbers. There is no Union in our Plant. Now for every small issue, we need to speak to all the 20 workers and settle the issue. Can we appoint any of the workers as Workers' representatives, at least 4-5, so that we can discuss with the representatives and finalize the issues?

Can any one of the seniors please respond to this issue?

Thank you,

Pavan

Direct Communication with Employees

It is advisable to have a weekly meeting with all the employees where you can directly speak to the workers without any representation. With only 20 workers, it's a small number, but if you appoint one or two persons from among them as their representatives, the chances of them discussing the issue among all cannot be ruled out. When it comes in that direction, it becomes a representation.

Normally, when a particular worker asks about the problems, there will be a lot of grievances coming in. With the feeling that this representative will be a mouthpiece for others, they will put in a lot of complaints, which will ultimately lead to arguments and counterarguments. If this representative fails to satisfy the others, they may even think of selecting their own representative who they feel is good at negotiation. This will result in the formation of a Trade Union and will ultimately spoil the show. Therefore, do not think of having a representative of workmen.

Regards,
Madhu.T.K

Addressing 20 members should be an easy job to get open-minded thoughts directly from the employees. It's not advisable to pick representatives for 20 employees. I agree with Madhu too; it will lead to a lot of complications.

Regards,
Anita N