Roles and tasks of union representatives
As a NITO union representative, you will have the opportunity to influence the working conditions at your workplace, build valuable networks and develop your own expertise. Here you will find out more about what the role entails, what support you will receive, and what you can get out of the position.
Main tasks and responsibilities
As a union representative in one of NITO's business groups, there is a lot you can do – and a few things you need to do. It is up to you where you put your activity and ambition level.
Representation and co-determination
A key part of the role is to represent the members in collective matters and ensure co-determination. You participate in processes that concern the workplace and ensure that the members' voice is heard in decisions. This can apply to everything from reorganisations and social initiatives to strategic choices for the business.
In addition, you provide individual support to members who have questions or challenges related to pay, working conditions or conflicts in the workplace.
What do NITO's union representatives work with?
Basic tasks - "must"
As a union representative in a company group in NITO, there is a lot that is possible and little you have to do, but you must:
- Conduct the annual meeting: Ensure that an annual meeting is held in the company group. Here, union representatives are elected – you get the necessary legitimacy to act on behalf of NITO members
- Take basic training: Participate in basic training to gain the necessary knowledge about the role, negotiations, co-determination and tools you have at your disposal as a union representative in NITO.
Learn more about the annual meeting
See all courses for union representatives
This is what you can do as a union representative - "should/can"
Most of NITO's business groups participate in salary negotiations, while some have to establish rights and routines around this. Most people have meetings with management about matters other than salary, but it varies how often and regularly these meetings are.
Here is a list of tasks that you can get involved in. What is important and right to prioritize is up to you to choose.
Collaboration with management
- Negotiate salary: Representing members in local wage negotiations
- Participate in meetings with management: Participate in regular meetings and, if necessary, in relevant matters
- Setting the agenda: Take the initiative to put issues on the agenda in meetings with management
Member Activities
- Supporting Members: Handle questions and cases from members – sometimes you solve the cases yourself, other times you take it to the NITO secretariat
- Arranging member meetings: Gather members for information and discussion. Both useful and social.
- Visualize results: Tell the members about what issues you have been involved in and what you have achieved.
Development of the company group/board work
- Have board meetings: Conduct regular board meetings of the corporate group board. Here you discuss issues, delegate tasks and plan activities
- Recruiting new members: Recruit new NITO members – you are stronger when there are more of you
- Develop competence: Attend several courses to strengthen your role. Maybe you can participate more people from the board together?
- Building networks: Participate in gatherings and conferences for union representatives in NITO to share experiences and build networks.
What do you get out of being a union representative?
As a union representative, you will have the opportunity for both personal and professional development:
- Valuable network: You build contacts with other union representatives across companies and industries, and get a different relationship with management than in your usual role.
- Competence development: Through courses and practical experience, you will develop expertise in a broad field – from negotiation techniques, communication and meeting management to employment law and conflict management.
- Experience that strengthens you further in your career: The position strengthens your CV and shows that you take responsibility, can represent others and have insight into organizational development.
- Opportunities for influencing: You can help create positive changes for yourself and your colleagues.
"In my position as a company representative, I also get a fantastic insight into what is happening in the company and how the operation and organization of the company works. It provides useful lessons, and I feel that I grow as a person in such a position."
Sveinung Longva Vatnehol, NITO union representative at Innlandet Hospital Trust
Time and flexibility
Many are worried about how much time the position will require. It is important to know that:
- The effort is largely determined by each company group and the situation in the workplace.
- There are few formal requirements (must-assignments), and much is optional.
- You can help define the level of ambition together with the members.
- You don't have to do everything alone – it's nice to divide tasks with the other members of the company group board.
- Courses and training are offered both digitally and physically.
- As a union representative, you are entitled to paid time off to participate in courses and meetings organized by NITO.
- NITO even covers expenses for babysitting when you are on a course.
- Your employer must make arrangements for you to perform your duties.
Support and training
As a union representative, you are not alone. NITO offers extensive support and training to make you confident in the role.
Course offerings
NITO offers a wide range of courses for union representatives:
- NITO Intro 1: Basic introduction to the role of union representative
- NITO Intro 2: Specialization in co-determination, cooperation with management and salary negotiations
- NITO Intro 3: Knowledge about working hours, appointment, restructuring and dismissal
- Thematic course: Specialization in different areas
- Process Course: Personal development in the role of experienced union representative
- Digital courses: Flexible learning when it suits you
You can find more information about the courses on NITO's union representative courses page.
"Take a course! It's very educational, very nice and you get to build relationships with other union representatives in NITO across companies and industries."
Ingrid Daltveit Skauby, employee representative at Aker Solutions
Digital resources and networks
As a union representative, you will find a number of tools on My page. Here you will find an overview of the members, salary statistics for your company group, practical templates and exclusive expert guides on how to proceed as a union representative in different situations.
You will also be part of a network with other union representatives where you can share experiences and get advice.
"Through NITO's union representative course, I have learned a lot, gained better self-confidence as a board member and feel more secure in the role."
Eliane Mathiassen, LKAB Norway AS
Support from NITO
You will receive support from both NITO centrally and your local NITO department. This includes:
- Advice from experienced organization people and dealers
- Legal assistance if needed
- Access to templates and tools
Do you want to know more or become a union representative?
Are you interested in becoming a union representative or do you want to know more about what the role entails? Here are some next steps:
- Talk to the nomination committee or current union representatives at your workplace
- Attend the company group's annual meeting and stand for election
- Sign up for an introductory course to learn more about the role
