CHAPTER 10

Employee Relations and Employee Discipline

THE IMPORTANCE OF EMPLOYEE RELATIONS

Healthy employee relations lead to more efficient, motivated and productive employees.

PREVENTION OF EMPLOYEE MISCONDUCT

Setting

an example by their own conduct, maintaining high professional and ethical standards. Providing a high-quality work environment that is conducive to innovation and increased productivity Establishing and communicating clear guidelines concerning their expectations for the operation of their office.

 Establishing

objective, understandable, obtainable, and measurable performance standards and communicating them clearly to employees. Monitoring performance and giving frequent feedback. Holding employees accountable for results and recognizing and rewarding good performance. Providing opportunities for individual growth and development, including formal and on-the-job training, mentors, and role model for employees.

Categories of Difficult/ Problem Employees

Ineffective employee/with unsatisfactory performance Rule violators Illegal or dishonest acts

With personal problems

Substance abuse

DISCIPLINE OR INFRACTION CASES

Against

Person Against Property Orderliness/good conduct Attendance and punctuality Morality Conflict of interest Non-performance Honesty/Integrity

Addressing employee conduct problems

Discuss any misconduct or performance problems directly with the employee.
Clearly explain expectations to the employee and review any rules, regulations, or policies in the area where the employee is exhibiting problems.

If applicable, develop a plan with the employee directed at helping to improve misconduct.

Give the employee periodic and specific feedback.

If misconduct continues, the supervisor may choose to orally admonish the employee, providing a strong message that further incidents of similar misconduct may lead to a more formal action.

APPROACHES TO DISCIPLINE

1. Hot Stove Rule by Douglas

McGregor

2. Progressive discipline 4. Negative approach

6. Counseling approach

3. Positive/corrective discipline

5. Preventive discipline

1. 2. 3. 4.

A warning system An immediate burn Consistency Impersonal