How to Start a Petition at Work:
A Practical Guide for First-Time Petition Starters
Karen
Creator
Have you ever felt that something at your workplace needs to change—but didn’t know where to start?
Whether it’s outdated safety gear, uncomfortable uniforms, or a lack of proper cooling in hot conditions, small issues can add up and affect your daily life.
The good news? You don’t have to face it alone. Starting a petition is a powerful way to bring attention to workplace problems and create real change. And you don’t need to be an expert or a manager to make it happen.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to collect signatures and involve co-workers in your petition—even if you’ve never done anything like this before.
Why Start a Petition at Work?
You and your team know your work environment best. A petition allows you to highlight what’s not working, and what can be improved. It’s not about complaining; it’s about showing that multiple voices are asking for the same solution.
Imagine getting:
- Cooling vests for summer heat
- Safer gloves for heavy lifting
- Supportive shoes for long hours on concrete
These changes start with someone speaking up. And that someone could be you.
Know Your Rights and Workplace Rules
Before collecting signatures, take a few minutes to check:
- Does your workplace have a policy on petitions?
- Are there union rules or employee agreements to consider?
- What’s the safest way to approach this (especially if anonymity is important)?
In many countries, it’s legal to share a petition, as long as it’s respectful, voluntary, and doesn’t disrupt work. When in doubt, look up local labor guidelines or speak with a union rep.
Get Clear on What You Want
Start simple. What’s the one change you’d like to see?
Write it down in a clear, respectful way. Example:
“We, the undersigned, respectfully ask for better heat protection gear for the outdoor team during summer months.”
Avoid long rants or blame. Keep it focused and specific—this builds trust and credibility.
Talk to People You Trust First
Before going public, test the waters with a couple of close colleagues. Ask:
- “Hey, do you also find the gloves hard to work with?”
- “Would you support a request for new gear?”
This early feedback helps shape your petition and gives you a small team of supporters right from the start.
How to Ask Co-workers to Sign Your Petition
Make it easy and pressure-free. Here’s a simple message you can send or say:
“Hi [Name], I’m starting a petition asking management to provide cooling vests for outdoor work. If you agree, would you be open to signing it? No pressure at all—just trying to make our work a bit more comfortable.”
You can use:
- Printed forms
- A Google Form
- A link from a free, anonymous petition platforms like Marunishi.io
If allowed, you can also post flyers in break areas or share the link via group chats (WhatsApp, Messenger, Slack).
Tips to Make Sharing Easy and Safe
- Create a QR code for your petition and put it on flyers
- Send it during non-work hours, like breaks or after shifts
- Respect privacy: never share who signed without their OK
If you’re worried about privacy, use anonymous platforms or send group submissions.
Submitting the Petition: Make it Count
Choose a smart time. Before a team meeting or shift change. Submit it:
- In person, together with your group
- Via email, with a respectful message
Here’s a sample:
“Dear [Manager/HR],
We are sharing this petition as a team request to improve comfort and safety in our daily work. We believe this change would benefit everyone and appreciate your time in reviewing it.”
Keep the Momentum Going
Whether the answer is yes or “we’ll think about it,” keep your group informed. Celebrate small wins. Even raising the issue is a win—you made your voice heard.
Encourage others to speak up too. You’ve shown them that it’s possible.
Free Tools & Resources
Here are useful resources for you to get started:
Final Words
Starting a petition might feel scary. But remember—you’re not alone, and you’re doing it for a better, safer, more comfortable workplace. By involving your co-workers and speaking up respectfully, you can help create real improvements for your whole team.
Change doesn’t happen overnight, but it always starts with someone. Why not you?
Join the community. Start a campaign. Help shape a better workplace – for you and everyone around you.