Start-Up Guide To Managing Poor Performance

Businesses should follow good management practices to help avoid potential claims relating to a dismissal:

• Make sure that any employee-related policies and procedures the business has are always followed (for example, an equal opportunities policy).
• Address any issues with employees as soon as they emerge. Generally an employer's position deteriorates the longer the delay.
• Think carefully about what you are writing when sending any e-mails to employees.
• In many circumstances an informal meeting with an employee can resolve a problem. However, employees must be made aware that a formal process could be used if an issue remains unresolved. The procedure for formally disciplining an employee is complicated, so take legal advice before starting the process.