Shop steward (luottamusmies)

Detailed explanation

The shop steward is elected by employees who are members of the trade union that has negotiated the collective agreement applicable to the workplace. They serve as a bridge between employees and management, helping to interpret and apply the collective agreement, resolve workplace disputes, and ensure that employees' rights are respected.

Shop stewards receive special training for their role and are given protected time to carry out their duties. They have enhanced job protection, meaning they cannot be easily dismissed, which allows them to represent employees without fear of retaliation. This protection is essential for them to effectively advocate for workers' interests.

The shop steward's duties include participating in negotiations about working conditions, helping individual employees with workplace problems, and ensuring the employer follows the collective agreement. They often sit on various workplace committees and have access to information about the company's plans that might affect employees, such as organizational changes or layoffs.

How it affects expats

• •Free advice: Shop stewards provide help regardless of your union membership status

• •First contact point: If you have a workplace issue, the shop steward is often the best first contact

• •Language support: They can explain complex Finnish workplace rules in practical terms

• •Confidential help: Discussions with the shop steward are typically confidential

• •Not management: They represent employees, not the employer, so their loyalty is to workers

When to contact your shop steward

• •You believe your contract terms aren't being followed

• •You're unsure about your rights regarding working hours, pay, or leave

• •You face problems with your manager or colleagues

• •Organizational changes are announced that affect your position

• •You need help understanding the collective agreement

Practical tips

• •Find out who your shop steward is when you start a new job

• •They can attend meetings with HR or management on your behalf

• •Union membership isn't required to seek their advice

• •Larger workplaces may have multiple shop stewards for different departments

Related terms

• •Trade union — An organization that can provide advice, legal help, and support for employees

• •Collective agreement (TES) — Industry-wide minimum employment conditions in Finland, set by collective bargaining

• •Employment contract (Tyosopimus) — Your agreement with an employer covering duties, pay, working time, and key terms