If you’re been working in the corporate world, then you probably know what a verbal warning is. But for those who don’t, it is a warning given by an employer or the higher ups to tell the employee that they are not doing their job well.
But a verbal warning shouldn’t be taken negatively. Instead, an employee should see this as a stepping stone to improve their performance inside the workplace. Those who have taken it too seriously will probably be discouraged and eventually become a disgruntled employee, which is something that you want to avoid.
Informal Verbal Warning
Employees that are being too tardy at work will be given an informal verbal warning. The best thing you can do about this is to approach the employee and assess the problem personally. Ask him/her if there’s any problem they might be experiencing, hence their tardiness at work. Find ways to help them fix the problem if there is any.
Always make the employee feel that they are valuable, not slaves just like in the days back then. Build a relationship to them and avoid acting like a jerk boss just like in the movies. Give them time to improve their performance because if not, this is the time where you’re going to give them a “Formal Verbal Written Warning” which we are going to tackle below.
Formal Verbal Written Warning
A formal verbal written warning is given if an employee’s behavior has still not changed. This is where the “Progressive Disciplinary Process” begins which is going to reflect in their paper. This type of warning is given after the “Informal Verbal Warning” and may include a few factors that needs to be included such as the expectations of the company and how they are not met.
You need to convince the employee to sign this kind of paper though. It is also required that they will provide a written response as well. If they refuse, you can report this to another manager and have them take action. Better yet, force this copy into the employee’s personnel file if they still refuse to sign the paper.
What Happens if This Warning Goes into the Employee’s File?
First, let’s talk about the “Informal Verbal Warning”. This warning is only used for future reference in case their tardiness continues on for the followings days or weeks. As an employer, you can keep this in a separate file so that you can attach it in the “Formal Verbal Written Warning” that goes into the employee’s file.
Keep in mind that before filing a formal verbal written warning, it’s better to assess the situation first about their behavior. As mentioned earlier, it’s best to have a personal talk with them and be approachable. Do your best to be the boss they look up to for a healthier and happier workplace.
