Delta’s anti-union campaign draws ire, as internal messaging goes public
The airline encouraged employees to buy video games instead of paying union dues. That message elicited widespread backlash; AFL-CIO’s social media response also overstepped.
Because of social media, how you speak to employees can quickly become a reputational issue for your organization.
Delta Airlines has seen modest success in recent years and big payouts for top-level executives, but many employees still work long days for $9 an hour. Union representatives from the International Association of Machinists (IAM) have been circulating materials to call for a vote to unionize, but Delta is pushing back.
The company has used flyers, websites and apps to convince employees that a union isn’t in their best interest. However, some of those messages have been poorly received.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported:
Atlanta-based Delta has launched its own campaign, including websites and apps criticizing the IAM and urging them not to sign the cards calling for a unionization vote.
The IAM posted a picture of a flyer posted in a Delta break room that suggests workers should spend their money on a new video game system rather than on union dues.
Become a Ragan Insider member to read this article and all other archived content.
Sign up today
Already a member? Log in here.
Learn more about Ragan Insider.
Tags: Delta Air Lines
