Step 1: Have a conversation with coworkers 

Before even beginning to think about how you’re going to stand up to management, you need to talk with coworkers about the problems you all are experiencing. Finding common ground among your coworkers, many of whom have different life experiences than you, is one of the most important things you can do. It’s foundational to every successful unionization effort. 

Above all else, remember: every unionization process is DIFFERENT.

Step 2: Reach out to a union organizer (SBWU) to plan next steps

Once you and your coworkers feel confident about having a majority support (51%) for union efforts, reach out to unions with experience in the process. For Starbucks partners, reach out to Starbucks Workers United to begin planning how you’d like to announce your intention to form a union. SBWU has helped unionize 700 stores and nearly 10,000 partners. 

Step 3: Gather union cards and be ready to file for an election

To show your shop that your shop is serious about unionizing, you’ll collect union cards. These cards will be signed by each partner at your shop and represent a request for formal recognition. This part will play one of two ways: either management will recognize the union or they don’t. In Starbucks’ case they normally don’t. If the latter happens, you and your coworkers file an election with the National Labor Relations Board.

All you need is a simple majority in this secret election. 

Step 4: Collectively bargain 

If you win your election, now comes the tedious part — bargaining. Basically, your coworkers who are designated to bargain will discuss the rules by which management must follow.