Final answer:
Voluntary recognition refers to an employer accepting a labor union as its employees' representative without a formal vote, leading directly to collective bargaining.
Step-by-step explanation:
“Voluntary recognition” occurs when an employer recognizes a labor union as the legitimate representative of its employees without the need for a formal election. This means that the employer accepts the union to negotiate on behalf of the workforce regarding wages, working conditions, and other terms of employment, thus entering into collective bargaining. This practice can vary by country. For instance, in Canada, the formation of a union can be simpler compared to the United States. Canadian workers can establish a union if a sufficient percentage sign an official card in favor of unionizing, rather than going through a contentious election process. Management's ability to oppose unionization is also more restricted by law in Canada.