Final answer:
A bargaining unit represents a group of employees in collective bargaining with an employer, typically facilitated by a labor union, to negotiate wages, work conditions, and benefits.
Step-by-step explanation:
A bargaining unit is a group of employees with a clear and identifiable community of interests who are represented by a single labor union in collective bargaining and labor relations. It is crucial for facilitating negotiations regarding wages, work conditions, benefits, and other aspects of employment. This group may include all the workers within a particular industry or company, or it can be more specialized, representing only the skilled workers in certain crafts or professions.
The effectiveness of a labor union as a bargaining representative depends on its ability to unify the voices of the workers and negotiate with the employer. A labor union works to equalize the balance of power between the employees and the employer and seeks improvements in work conditions through collective bargaining. Union members may enjoy benefits such as higher wages and better working conditions compared to non-unionized workers.