Union Office, British Telecom, Becket House, New Dover Road,
Canterbury, Kent, CT1 3BB
Tel: 01227 760311 Fax: 01227 815929 e-
CWU MERIDIAN BRANCH
To all CWU members
We would advise any member faced with an informal or formal performance procedure to ask their manager for a copy of the procedure IN WRITING in order that you and we can understand properly what you are dealing with.
There are 5 things that a manager MUST do before using an informal or formal performance procedure. They are:
- The performance standard expected MUST have been clearly communicated.
- You MUST have an up-
to- date Job Description for your role. - You MUST be already aware of the performance level expected of you.
- The manager MUST have evidence to demonstrate the required standard is not being achieved.
- The manager MUST have given you feedback BEFOREHAND about your under-
performance and given you a REASONABLE timescale to get back to target.
Managers MUST also give consideration to the following:
- Has there been a change in your personal life that needs to be considered?
- Have you recently returned from maternity or sick leave – if so managers must consider how they approach you about your performance?
- Are you in a new role or acquiring new skills? If so, has adequate time and training been given to allow your performance to be fairly assessed?
- Are there other issues that need to be considered e.g. discipline/absence issues?
We would also recommend that members on an informal or formal performance plan:
- Ensure all training/coaching commitments are documented
- Ensure all training/coaching commitments are delivered
- If training/coaching commitments are not delivered then register this in writing with your manager and request in writing that this shortfall be addressed.
- Keep copies of ALL relevant documentation
Quality coaching involves your manager identifying what you need to do differently and specifically what you need to change, complete with a documented plan to help you achieve the required standards. If you do not feel your coaching is doing enough to help you achieve your objectives then speak to your manager.
We strongly recommend that you keep a personal diary of your daily work, problems, issues, contact with or from your manager and what about. Keep copies of emails and all correspondence and for further assistance contact the Union office.