Examining the Role of Trade Unions in Representing Members During Promotion Selection and Job Interviews

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51137/wrp.ijsbe.607

Keywords:

Employee Relations, Job Interview, Promotional Posts, Public Schools, Stakeholder Theory

Abstract

Members of trade unions typically expect to receive equitable and effective representation from during promotion processes and promotional job interviews to promote long-term sustainable relationships and increase affiliations. This study examined the role of trade unions in representing their members during the selection of candidates for promotional posts and in associated interview processes. The stakeholder theory is adopted as a theoretical lens in the study. Qualitative research design was employed to address the research objective, and primary data were collected from permanently employed educators working in public schools. Primary data were analysed using content analysis, supported by Atlas.ti software. The findings indicated heterogeneous levels of satisfaction with trade unions’ representation of members during promotion selection and job interviews. The study concludes by offering recommendations for relevant stakeholders and for future research.

Author Biographies

  • Mpho

    Mpho Gift Makgopa serves as Student Support Administrator at the University of South Africa. She holds Bachelor of Accounting Sciences from the University of South Africa, Honours Bachelor of Commerce from Regent Business School and currently Master of Commerce candidate the Management College of South Africa (Mancosa).

  • Sipho, University of South Africa

    Prof Sipho Selatole Makgopa serves as an Associate Professor at the University of South Africa in the College of Economic and Management Sciences. He holds Bachelor of Commerce, Honours Bachelor of Commerce and Master of Commerce from University of South Africa, and Master of Philosophy and PhD in Business Management from University of Pretoria. He authored and published articles in accredited journals and book chapters.

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Published

2026-03-30

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Section

Original Research Paper

How to Cite

Makgopa, M. G., & Makgopa, S. (2026). Examining the Role of Trade Unions in Representing Members During Promotion Selection and Job Interviews. International Journal of Sustainability in Business and Economics, 2(2). https://doi.org/10.51137/wrp.ijsbe.607