The Consequences of Delayed Disciplinary Actions

Written By: Stephanie Burford, PHR, M.S., HR Manager at Advisor HR
Imagine holding an 8-ounce glass of water. It’s light, easy to hold, and feels weightless. As time passes, the glass starts to feel heavier, and your arm starts to feel strained. After an hour, the weightless glass becomes unbearable, but the weight of the glass remained constant - it never changed. This simple analogy offers a profound lesson about the consequences of delayed actions, particularly around accountability and timely disciplinary measures in a professional setting.
In the workplace, unresolved issues such as poor attendance, unmet performance expectations, or disruptive behavior act as the glass of water. At first, the action is light. It requires minimal effort to address. Almost so minimal, exceptions are made. For example: an employee was in late last week, but it was due to car trouble. Their absence is excused. The employee leaves early this due to a family emergency. Next thing you know, the employees’ attendance record is unacceptable. These absences at first seem valid, but as time goes on the effects of the unresolved issues begin to multiply and what once started as a manageable situation is now causing far more strain than if the situation was handled immediately.
Delaying actions or hoping the issue resolves on its own doesn’t just prolong the problem, accepts it. When managers do not immediately address issues, the employee and employees around them view the disruptive behavior, poor attendance, or performance as standard and accepted. In turn, it sets a precedent to the employees around and they may start to adopt similar behaviors.
The glass of water reminds us that delaying actions can cause unnecessary strain over time. Put the glass down before it becomes too heavy to hold. When an issue comes up, no matter how small, address it immediately with documentation. By addressing issues promptly, employees will be clear on what’s expected while leaders can maintain a productive work environment.
If you are having issues with administering disciplinary actions, need help writing one, or just want to talk through an employee situation, Advisor HR is here to help! Don’t allow the glass to feel unbearable – we are here to provide you with the resources and guidance you need. We will even write the disciplinary action form for you!
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