Discipline Guidelines
When coaching and partnering together isn't working, sometimes you may have to take the disciplinary steps. Be sure that performance problems have been documented in a Performance Review and that you take notes about performance problem discussions that you have during one-on-one meetings with your staff. You should also attempt a formal Performance Improvement Plan when performance issues arise.
The Progressive Discipline Process involves these escalating steps:
- Verbal Warning - should include specific information about the problem and what improvement is needed
- Written Warning - should be first reviewed by your HR Representative for legal security
- Probation
- Suspension
- Termination of Employment
The final three steps should not be taken without first consulting your HR Representative. Please also note that certain serious violations may require advancing to a more severe level of discipline - call your HR Representative or the LifeWorks Management Line for assistance in assessing how to respond to a particular situation.
For detailed information, please see Partnering for Performance - A Manager's Guide (.pdf). You may also want to refer your employee to LifeWorks.
For more information:
- Partnering for Performance - A Manager's Guide (.pdf) - see pp. 20-24 for information about the Progressive Discipline Process
- Performance Review Form (.doc) and Performance Review Guidelines (.pdf)
- Performance Improvement Plan (.doc)
- Computer based training: Preventing Sexual Harassment
- Employee Separation Checklist (.pdf)
- A Guide to Unemployment Compensation Liability When an Employee is Terminated (.pdf)
- LifeWorks Employee Assistance Program