Warning Letter

A warning letter, which is the other name for written warning, or formal notice, is a document drafted by an employer to an employee that contains performance problems, misconduct or violation of company policies and procedures. Warning letters play the role of the formal mode of communication to inform employees about aspects that need to be improved, set the rules, and give an opportunity to take corrective action. Depending on the gravity of offence a warning letter may increase in severity, and you may be subject to further disciplinary action, if your performance or behavior does not improve.

Example of Warning Letter

The employee of the company violates the company attendance policy as he comes late to work irregularly. If both informal meetings and verbal statements prove inadequate, the employee's supervisor will draft a formal warning letter. The letter starts by mentioning the recent instances of latecomings, then reminds the employee about the compnay attendance standards and emphasises the significance of punctuality in maintaining productivity and teamwork. Further, the letter includes a performance improvement plan with concrete actions to be taken by the employee for correction of the behavior, e.g. coming on time, notifying the supervisor about any unavoidable delays, and adhering to breaks set out in their schedule. The warning letter is a written record of the employer's measures to deal with the situation and it also forms the basis of any additional disciplinary measures that the employer may take if the behavior continues. The employee is given a chance to correct their behavior through clear communication of expectations and consequences contained in the warning letter, and thus avoid more severe penalties.