Employers, Follow Your Own Procedures!

Most employers are aware that it is important to have policies and procedures in place, but the problem is, they forget to follow them, which can lead to severe, negative consequences. You should never assume that your leadership team has read their handbook and are aware of their responsibilities when dealing with employees. In fact, it is imperative to hold regular training sessions with your management team to review your company’s policies and procedures.

• Make sure that the performance expectations are set forth clearly from the beginning. This includes advertisements for the position and during the interview process. An employer needs an objective reference point for its decisions in the event a dispute occurs later on regarding performance or conduct.
• Consider holding routine performance reviews with employees to avoid unpleasant surprises later on. Your employee should understand what improvements need to be made and what timeframe you are giving them to make the necessary changes. It is important for an employer to show that you want the employees to succeed and keep their jobs.
• Before any formal steps are taken, review your company handbook to verify that all policies and procedures are being followed. If there is any question on how to handle a matter, confer with an employment attorney. The small amount you will spend on getting trusted legal advice before you take action is minimal to the amount you will spend litigating a lawsuit filed by your employee.
• If your employee’s performance continues to deteriorate and you have confirmed the action you need to take complies with your handbook and the law, take action. The longer you allow performance issues to continue, the more trouble it will cause.