What are trade unions? Benefits, rights and membership

Why are trade unions important for many employees? Trade unions have played an important role in Germany for decades - especially in professions where physical labor, shift work or long working hours are part of everyday life. They campaign for fair wages, secure jobs and better conditions.

In this article, you will find out what a trade union does, the advantages and disadvantages of membership and how to find employers bound by collective agreements - especially if you come from abroad or are new to the German job market.

Trade unions and employers' associations declared

A trade union is an organization that represents the interests of employees - e.g. with regard to wages, working hours, break regulations or protection against dismissal. Their counterparts are employers' associations, which represent the interests of companies.

Both sides meet regularly for negotiations, known as collective bargaining, to discuss wages, working conditions and special payments such as vacation or Christmas bonuses. If both sides reach an agreement, a collective agreement is drawn up - which then applies to all those who are bound by the collective agreement. You can find out more about this in our article "Collective agreements explained".

Activities, rights and membership of a trade union

Trade unions support you in various areas:

• You conduct collective bargaining with employers.
• They will advise you on legal issues or problems in the workplace.
• They help with dismissals, warnings or disputes with the boss.
• They campaign for better safety standards and working conditions.
  
  

If you are a member, you pay a small monthly fee (usually between 1-1.5 % of your gross salary). In return, however, you have access to free legal advice, representation before the labor court and information on your rights. This is particularly helpful for questions about continued payment of wages in the event of illness or vacation entitlement in the event of dismissal.

Advantages of a trade union

The advantages of trade unions are particularly noticeable in the skilled trades, logistics, care, the public sector and industry. Here is an overview:

1. collective agreements and better wages:
Through negotiations with employers' associations, trade unions ensure that you earn more - often well above the statutory minimum wage. Many companies that are bound by collective agreements also offer Christmas and vacation bonuses.

2. legal protection and support:
If you have problems with your employer - e.g. if you are dismissed or receive a warning - you will receive legal support. The trade union often also covers the costs of a lawyer if you are a member.

3. improved working conditions:
Trade unions negotiate not only about money, but also about working time regulations, breaks, shift models and health protection. In some sectors, trade unions have resulted in shorter working hours or more vacation days.

4. social security and further training:
Many trade unions offer additional training, further training opportunities or seminars - e.g. on occupational health and safety, language courses or job application training.

5. acting together:
It is often difficult to change things on your own. As part of a trade union, you can help shape your working environment together with other colleagues. 

Disadvantages of a trade union

Of course, there are also a few points that you should bear in mind when becoming a member:

1. membership fee:
The trade union is not free. The fee is usually 1-1.5% of your gross salary - e.g. €20-30 per month. For many, this is worth it, but everyone has to decide for themselves.

2. no immediate effect:
Not all trade union demands are implemented immediately. Collective bargaining can drag on for months - sometimes even despite strikes.

3. not everyone benefits immediately:
If you work for a company that is not covered by a collective agreement, you will not automatically receive all the benefits - unless you actively campaign or switch to a company that is covered by a collective agreement.

4. less influence in small companies:
In very small companies without a works council or trade union structure, it is sometimes more difficult to achieve concrete improvements.

Find jobs on WorkerHero

On WorkerHero, you will find specific jobs where, for example, collective bargaining agreements (e.g. IG Metall, ver.di, NGG) are clearly stated. For you, this means: fair wages, transparent working hours and reliable conditions - particularly important if you are new to Germany or looking for security.

We also show you which professions have a future - read more in the article "Professions with a future". WorkerHero not only supports you in your job search, but also in finding your way around German working life.