Activity Step Number Collective bargaining over the first labor contract occurs. The labor contract is signed. Petition the NLRB to hold an election. The union signs up members and elects officers. A grievance procedure is used to resolve disputes during the life of the contract. Hold a secret-ballot election. If unionization is rejected by a majority vote, the process ends. Collect signed authorization cards. Generate interest in unionizing among the employees. If less than 30% of bargaining unit members sign cards, the process ends