We're discussing a cooperative conversion at my workplace, and there are people who aren't interested who are afraid they'd be forced to leave.
How normal is it for worker coops to leave employees the option of *not* becoming members but still staying on as employees? (I'm assuming all employees always *have* that option, mind you.)
How does it work out when they do? Does it create informal pressures that undermine workplace democracy, or is it functional?
@nmashton This is usually defined in the bylaws, and can be up to the group.
I'd say the most common approach is the require folks the join the #coop at the end of their trial period, but to empower the board of directors to make exceptions on a case-by-case basis. I do also know #coops for whom, at the end of the probationary period the choice is join or leave.
It ties heavily into how ownership fits into the company culture. #workercoop #workerstoowners #coopconversion
@mattcropp Thanks for the info!
Are transitional bylaws and legacy arrangements common in conversions? Maybe all current employees could be allowed to opt out (and could get *some* sort of voting rights distinct from those of full members)?
Neil Ashton
Matt Cropp 🌲🌲