Wednesday, March 5, 2025

Act with Integrity

When we are able to admit to errors and change course, more thorough discussions can happen, and more informed decisions can be made

By Carla Brink, Representative

As I read about and later watched a recent political meeting that many described as performance theatre using bully tactics, I was reminded of how our members must have felt when they attended disciplinary meetings with a human resources manager.

This manager, who was formerly an employee of one of our signatory employers, called members into the office and subjected them to an attitude that relayed a winning-at-all-costs vendetta. Every question was phrased and stated as an accusation.

There was an overwhelming feeling of judgment rather than a desire for understanding. The lack of empathy was pervasive.

For the representatives and stewards involved, it was tricky to navigate advocating for our members in a way that didn’t set off the volcano and make the whole situation worse. We did our best and were generally able to mitigate the damage.

I can only imagine how much worse it would have been without the requirement for the union to be in the room during discipline hearings.

Conversely, in the course of my work as a representative, I’ve dealt with several very professional HR managers. Meetings go so much better because all parties come to them with humility, mutual respect, and a willingness to really listen.

When participants are able to admit to errors and change course when warranted—rather than being there with an agenda to win at all costs—more thorough discussions can happen, and more informed decisions can be made.

Although it is jarring to witness the behaviour of people in positions of power who are unwilling to ever admit poor judgment or decisions—and who always double down on intimidation—it is a good reminder to act with integrity, because, ultimately, people see through you.

Act with Integrity

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