New rep, don`t know where to start

[Marston]

OK, I`m a newish rep, and I haven`t got the ball rolling on this revision stuff yet, had a hectic month or so outside work.

Right now the manager wants 100 hours saving from the office, before this revision. He wants me to put together a forum of drivers, FT/PT walkers etc to identify these hours. I`ll do that this week but I already know the DOM will be told we have nothing to give.

Then theres the actual revision. Up here in Glasgow we are mostly self starters, my office included. What do I do right now? I feel like nothing is getting done and it`s my fault.

If anyone could give me a clue here, I`d be thankful. I don`t want to let the guys in the office down with this one.

[Thehair]

first things first, make sure DOM gives you release time for all revision related work, don't get hood winked into doing it in your own time because it's down to you!

[donut]

Go to the union room forum mate....you`ll get loads of advise there.

[Pat Ostman]

Go to the union room forum mate....you`ll get loads of advise there.

And good luck! Its mainly a thankless task

[clashcityrocker]

Make sure you have your Area rep's number handy and don't be afraid to ask for help.
See if they can arrange any training for you. It is well worth it and will give you more confidence when dealing with your DOM.
You have to build a working relationship with your DOM even if you don't like him/her.
Don't agree to anything without running it past someone more experienced.

[POSTMAN]

loads of stuff in here,although if you're inexperienced you could get a headache with it all...
http://www.royalmailchat.co.uk/communit ... 42&t=28277" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

This one is very important though...
http://www.royalmailchat.co.uk/communit ... 42&t=28089" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Ask what evrer you like in the forums you should get all the answers you need.
Good luck.

[silverback]

One thing I have learnt from experience is "dont agree to anything" even if you think it is ok. You are only representing your members. Take any proposals to them and dont hide anything. Sure give them your opinion but let them vote on any proposals. Unfortunately you will still get critisised by some members, usually the ones that wont attend meetings and reject any sort of change. Hope you have broad shoulders mate.

[rockytony67]

OK, I`m a newish rep, and I haven`t got the ball rolling on this revision stuff yet, had a hectic month or so outside work.

Right now the manager wants 100 hours saving from the office, before this revision. He wants me to put together a forum of drivers, FT/PT walkers etc to identify these hours. I`ll do that this week but I already know the DOM will be told we have nothing to give.

Then there's the actual revision. Up here in Glasgow we are mostly self starters, my office included. What do I do right now? I feel like nothing is getting done and it`s my fault.

If anyone could give me a clue here, I`d be thankful. I don`t want to let the guys in the office down with this one.

Listen mate don't get no forum of anyone together, if he wants a 100 hours ask him for his proposals, if there not workable tell him no, 20 years ago I was told by my old rep when I joined the office committee, that the only thing worse then a manager who is after hours that are not achievable, is the rep who helps him achieve it, this is not a dig at you mate just some advice, and remember if it comes in and everyone is unhappy the first thing he will do is act like Pontius Pilate and wash his hands of the whole business and say your Rep agreed it.

[Marston]

Just having a read at what I can now in the 2010 Threads and Downloads.

The wee forum thing I might have to do, I asked my area rep previously and he said to play along with the DOM on this one, as long as we don`t agree to any cuts. I`ll ask his proposal, then put it to the group, then all the members. As I say, it`s gonna be a resounding `F off` for that one. And there`s no way I would agree to anything without putting it by everyone, and sending it up to Branch first.

I`ve just done my Union Skills 1 course, next up is Postal Procedures and Agreements in October. I`ve heard that`s a good one.

To be honest I don`t think the DOM is in any rush to get this done, but I feel that maybe I`m a bit further behind than in some offices.

I`ll see what he has to say come Thursday, and hopefully by then I`ll have an idea as to where to start.

[ass asin]

i would say check these figures out on the iwt first never take ne1s word for anything and then counter check with your area rep.

[Big Daz]

i would say check these figures out on the iwt first never take ne1s word for anything and then counter check with your area rep.

I agree with this 100% having the ADR look over the IWT printout for one's D.O is invaluable.

[Tamsky]

Hi Marston - well done on taking the reps job on. Keep in touch with your Area Rep or his subby. They'll keep you right but most of all keep your members informed. You'll need their support. Antything your not sue of send me a PM, if I can help I will.

[Marston]

Thanks people, all help here is invaluable to someone in my position.

I had a quick look at the IWT figures this afternoon just before I left, forgot to bring them home though for a proper gander. I`ll do that tomorrow. From what I seen though looks like we could be in for a rough ride, it said 10 hours spare indoor for Monday and Tuesday each last week. I`ll see tomorrow if all the pieces fit, or if it`s jiggery pokery on the part of the DOM.

Gonna have a meeting with the guys in the next few days to see if I can get them on board with this one.

I`m sure I`ll be back soon with more damn questions, thanks for the help.