What is collective bargaining?

Collective bargaining is a process where union representatives negotiate on behalf of employees with employers to establish the terms of employment. This includes negotiating wages, working conditions, benefits, workplace rights, and other employment-related policies. The goal of collective bargaining is to reach a mutual agreement that satisfies both the workforce and management, facilitating a cooperative working relationship between the two parties.

This process is fundamental in organized labor contexts, as it provides a structured way for employees to have a voice in their employment conditions through representation. By choosing to engage in collective bargaining, employees can leverage their collective power to negotiate terms that might not be achievable individually. This is a crucial aspect of labor relations and helps ensure that employees’ rights and needs are not overlooked in workplace decision-making.

Other options do not inherently relate to the collective bargaining process. Recruiting new employees pertains to staffing rather than negotiating existing employees' working conditions. Employee evaluation methods look toward assessing individual performance rather than addressing systemic workforce issues. Establishing job descriptions is more about outlining roles and responsibilities within an organization and does not involve dialogue or negotiation with employee representatives.