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Best Hyatt in Hawaii (ideally Kona or Maui)?
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What kinds of questions do you have? It would probably be best to ask HR to be honest. I don't know how much the union can do for you but that depends on the questions that you have.
Pro
Thanks for your response! I appreciate your input. I have a few specific questions about salary structure and possible adjustments based on performance. I was concerned that HR might not provide the most impartial advice, which is why I considered reaching out to the union instead. Do you think HR would still be the best option for these kinds of inquiries?
It depends on the question, but there is no harm with asking both to make sure there is no discrepancy in the answer. For most salary-related questions though, HR will have more info.
No problem at all. Good luck!
Pro
Why don’t you try both?
Pro
I've been thinking to do both now since everyone in here advising to do it. Might not ask all my questions from HR though.
Pro
Yeah, you’re spot on with your gut feeling. HR is almost always on the employer’s side, even if they’re super nice and act like they’re there to “help” you. Their job is to protect the company, manage risk, and keep costs down, so when it comes to salary questions (especially if you’re pushing for a raise, market adjustment, or think you’re underpaid), anything you tell HR can and will be used to frame the narrative in the company’s favor. They’re not your advocate. The union, on the other hand, is literally paid (via your dues) to be on YOUR side. Their whole purpose is to represent employees in exactly these kinds of situations—interpreting the contract, checking if you’re being paid correctly according to the pay scale/grid, advising on how/when to grieve if something’s off, or helping you prep for a salary discussion with management. They’ve got way more leverage and insider knowledge about what’s actually possible under the CBA (collective bargaining agreement) than you do alone.
I’ve seen people go straight to HR thinking “they’ll be fair” and end up getting a canned “we’re within range” response, plus now management knows you’re unhappy and watching you closer. Meanwhile, folks who went through the union first usually come away with better outcomes—either an actual bump, step placement correction, or at least solid intel on when the next real opportunity is.
If you’re not sure who your union contact is, check your contract/onboarding packet or just ask a trusted coworker quietly. Most reps are happy to chat off the clock. What kind of salary stuff are you dealing with specifically (if you’re cool sharing) like suspecting you’re mis-placed on the scale, wanting a market adjustment, or just prepping for annual reviews? Might be able to give more tailored thoughts. Either way, definitely lead with the union, you’ll be glad you did.
Pro
Thank you so much for detailed explanation. I will definitely go to my union.