The period before contract bargaining or an important legislative fight may be a good time for signing up non-members because the importance of the union may be particularly clear to them at that time.

This won't be the same for each person. It could be a coworker or friend. It could be someone of a similar background. Or it could be someone they have never spoken with before in order to break old patterns.

Is it because they are a new employee and no one has ever asked them? If so, it may be important to approach them as though joining is what's naturally expected of everyone.

Is it because they are bitter because of what they see as a bad experience in the past? If so, it may be important to give them a chance to express those feelings before the rest of the conversation can take place.

Some of the points typically made to a non-member include:

• Your pay, benefits, and working conditions are determined by how seriously management and politicians take us, so it is in your interest to make us as strong as possible by joining.
• If you are unhappy about past experiences with the union, you have two choices. You can stay out of the union, making the union weaker which ultimately is to your disadvantage. Or you can get involved and help address the problems you are concerned about.
• Only members have a voice in decisions about what we fight for, how we pressure our opponents, and what we accept.
• We could use your ideas and experience. You have a contribution to make as an active union member.
• You have a responsibility to your coworkers to do your part.