Progressive discipline: Overview, definition, and example
What is progressive discipline?
Progressive discipline is a process used by employers to address employee misconduct or performance issues in a structured and escalating manner. The goal of progressive discipline is to give employees an opportunity to correct their behavior or performance before more serious actions are taken. The process typically involves a series of steps, starting with informal counseling or a verbal warning and progressing to more formal actions, such as written warnings, suspension, and ultimately termination, if the issue is not resolved. The idea is to provide employees with clear expectations and a chance to improve while ensuring that the employer's policies are consistently applied.
For example, if an employee repeatedly arrives late to work, they might first receive a verbal warning, followed by a written warning if the behavior continues, and eventually, more severe disciplinary measures if the lateness persists.
Why is progressive discipline important?
Progressive discipline is important because it ensures fairness and consistency in handling employee performance and behavior issues. By providing employees with a clear path for improvement, it helps avoid misunderstandings or perceived unfair treatment. It also gives employees the chance to correct their mistakes and improve their performance before facing more severe consequences, such as termination. For employers, a progressive discipline policy can help reduce legal risks by demonstrating that the company made reasonable efforts to address issues before taking drastic action. This process also helps maintain a productive and respectful workplace environment.
Understanding progressive discipline through an example
Let’s say an employee is consistently underperforming in their job responsibilities. The employer first provides verbal feedback, outlining the expectations and offering support. If the performance issue continues, the employer issues a written warning, specifying the problem and the expected improvements. If the employee fails to meet expectations after the written warning, the employer may suspend the employee or impose other disciplinary measures. If the performance does not improve after these steps, the employer might consider termination as a last resort.
In another example, an employee repeatedly violates the company’s attendance policy. The employer starts with a verbal warning, then moves to a written warning, followed by a suspension. If the employee’s attendance does not improve, termination may be considered.
An example of a progressive discipline clause
Here’s how a progressive discipline clause might appear in an employee handbook or employment contract:
“The Company follows a progressive discipline policy to address employee performance and behavior issues. The process typically begins with verbal counseling, followed by a written warning if the issue persists. Further violations may result in suspension, and if improvement is not made, termination of employment may be considered. Each step in the process will be documented, and the employee will be given the opportunity to correct their behavior before further action is taken.”
Conclusion
Progressive discipline is a fair and structured approach to addressing employee performance and behavioral issues. By providing employees with clear expectations and opportunities to improve, progressive discipline helps maintain a productive work environment while also offering employees the chance to correct their actions before facing severe consequences. For employers, implementing a progressive discipline policy helps ensure consistency, fairness, and legal compliance in handling workplace issues.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.