Shaping a strategy to improve the effectiveness of your business.

We understand the importance of managing poor employee performance and the drain on a business when it is not addressed. However, dealing with underperformance is one of the trickiest things to get right in the workplace.

Performance management issues must be dealt with fairly by businesses, otherwise they could be at risk of a claim for unfair dismissal. After years of experience supporting businesses in this area, we know the best way to manage poor performance without having to face a claim as a result. If you would like to discuss any poor performance concerns with our Employment Lawyers, contact us today.

Informal approach

In most situations, it will be beneficial for both you and the employee involved if an informal approach to addressing poor performance is taken in the first instance. The informal approach should focus on helping your employee to improve, by explaining the issues and creating a performance improvement plan, including goals and how progress will be monitored.

Formal approach

If the informal approach fails or where the matter is serious, you should refer to your formal disciplinary procedure. The Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (Acas) has a code of practice on performance management and, although not legally required, it is wise to base your internal policy on this. If the matter is brought before an Employment Tribunal, the Tribunal will expect to see compliance with the code as a minimum. If not, any compensation awarded to the employee could be increased. 

How can Partners Employment Lawyers help?

Our Employment Lawyers can assist businesses in dealing with poor performers and following good management practices to help avoid potential claims relating to a dismissal. Our service includes:

• Drafting and legal advice on internal performance management policies
• Providing in-house training on how to deal with poor performance in the workplace
• Legal services for claims of unfair dismissal
• Drafting and advising on a settlement agreements to bring your relationship with the employee to an end on mutual terms

Performance Management Advice London

Our Employment Lawyers are based in London and work with business clients operating throughout England. For advice and legal services relating to managing your employees’ performance, contact our approachable and professional team – call 0207 374 6546 now or contact us online.