Bulletin
Another production targets contest – ICBC
October 12, 2017
To: MoveUP Job Stewards at ICBC
Earlier this year it came to the Union’s attention that the Employer was again attempting to squeeze yet more work out of MoveUP members by instituting a contest for production targets at one or more claims centres. The contest offered frankly insulting prizes to the top teams, including the ability to wear jeans to work and priority parking. We are pleased to report that upon hearing the Union’s concerns, the Employer has advised that the contest in question has been or will soon be discontinued.
Some members may wonder why we would seek to stop such contests, especially if they have embraced the idea and put in some work on achievement boards or reports. It’s simple: everyone already works really hard, and contests such as this are an insult to their integrity as dedicated employees. In addition, contests risk pushing employees to work unpaid overtime and miss breaks. They could also have the unintended consequence of prompting the Employer to increase performance targets which could ultimately jeopardize employee health from added pressure and stress over the long run. People can only do so much in the time they are at work. Even voluntary programs can cause people to feel pressure, especially if they hear that their coworkers are participating or if their manager points out that they are the only one not part of the competition.
If you encounter any members who have questions, comments or concerns about the Union’s position on this subject, please encourage them to contact me directly. Please also let me know if you hear of any contests in the workplace so the Union may respond appropriately.
In solidarity,
Annette Toth, Vice President