You must take any warning you get at work seriously, whether verbal or written. A warning indicates that your boss is extremely unhappy with your work or attitude.
Normally, warnings get stronger. First, your supervisor might casually advise you that an issue exists. A verbal or written warning, which is documented, is the following step. This is a more official move, and human resources may be involved. Termination from a job may be the next step if the behaviour is not corrected.
The following information will help you understand what it means to receive a warning at work and how to react to it, whether written or verbal.
What is a Warning at Work?
A warning is a means to let employees know that their work is unsatisfactory, their performance is poor, or their behaviour is unacceptable. It is meant to warn employees that if they don’t improve their performance or behaviour, their employment may be in danger. Typically, warnings become more severe with each occurrence.
If the performance or behaviour is not corrected, the employer may issue a final written warning to the employee following their disciplinary procedures. The person may be moved to a different department, demoted, or fired if they don’t improve while the warning is still on their record.
There are two types of warnings that a manager gives to their employees, which are explained below –
A verbal warning
If your employer verbally warns you, they frequently mean you need to meet with them to discuss your performance or behaviour. Sometimes it might be as straightforward as a simple correction for a mistake or a reminder for future growth.
Although this could appear straightforward and harmless, it’s crucial to keep this in mind. The goal is typically to give employees another chance to improve their conduct or performance.
A warning in writing
Your first written warning at work can come in the form of a letter of concern and a performance review meeting. While every business is unique, this frequently occurs after being verbally warned. In most circumstances, employers will give a written warning if the same violation or offence has happened. You will now sign the written notice as the employee, and a copy of the letter will be put in your file.
How should one respond to a warning at work?
Keep your cool
You might react defensively right away if you believe your employer was in the wrong. Instead, it’s crucial to keep your cool. Even if it isn’t simple, try to maintain calm to diffuse the situation or prevent it from worsening.
Justify your position
You could feel the need to defend your position if you believe there has been a misunderstanding or disagree with the warning. Speaking up in such situations is difficult, but open communication may also benefit. It’s crucial to exercise caution when justifying your choices. Professionalism is essential, even how unfair the situation may seem.
Request advice on how to improve
Make sure you know exactly what you did wrong and the proper behaviour moving forward before you leave the meeting or sign any acceptance of a warning. This can occasionally be extremely simple.
For instance, suppose your manager tells you that you are prohibited from being late for the following four weeks after receiving a warning for arriving at work ten times in one month.
What steps should be taken after receiving a Warning at Work?
Determine whether the warning indicates the end of the process or a turning point
Before a termination, warnings may occasionally be given as a tool for the employer to defend themselves in court. However, it isn’t always the case. Sometimes, your boss or the human resources division sincerely thinks the problem can be resolved. Try to understand the motivation behind the warning you received.
Take some time to think about yourself
Consider all the information your manager presented to you during the meeting and any remarks made in the written warning if any. Consider whether the remarks were appropriate and what you could have done to prevent the scenario.
Follow up with your manager
Following up with your manager will help you determine what to do next. The decrease in the communication gap between the manager and the employee will help you plan out your future with the existing company or start looking out for a new company. Ideally, you’ll have actions or goals you can take to better your work or conduct.
Begin your job search
Even if receiving a warning does not necessarily mean your termination, it is still a smart idea to start looking for employment elsewhere while you are still a paid employee. Edit your resume to make sure it accurately reflects your most recent employment, skill set, and achievements. You could start networking on social media or even go to local networking events to grow your network. Ask those you interacted with often in previous positions if they know of any nearby businesses that are hiring. Then, in your leisure time, begin looking through online job postings and applying for positions.
You may be assured that you are examining all choices if you explore opportunities elsewhere while working to enhance your performance in your current position.
Authors Bio:
Aastha Sapra is a commerce student with a yearning to learn and works with Human Resource India which provides the best recruitment services. Being an avid language explorer, she is currently pursuing a diploma in German. She has written on varied themes ranging from business, finance, and technology to health and lifestyle.