Imagine: you receive a warning from your employer. That can be quite a shock. What should you do? And how do you ensure it doesn't work against you? In this blog, we explain it step by step.
What exactly is an official warning?
There is nothing in the law about official warnings. Companies often have their own rules for this. Sometimes you receive a warning on paper, sometimes via e-e-mail. Companies often also place such a warning in your staff file. And that can have consequences later, for example, if there is a dismissal procedure.
Always respond in writing
Have you received an official warning? Then it is important to always respond in writing. Preferably do this via e-e-mail, so you have proof of your response.
In your response, include:
- That you disagree with the warning.
- Why you disagree with it (provide arguments!).
- A request to your employer to withdraw the warning.
- A request to add your response to your staff file.
Why is this important? This way, you prevent only negative information about you from being in the file. And should your employer later decide to start a dismissal procedure, at least you have documented your side of the story.
Sometimes an employer asks if you want to sign the warning. Note: you are not obliged to do so, especially if you disagree with it. By signing, it seems as if you agree. So do not sign anything if you are in doubt or disagree with something.
A conversation with your employer can help
Have you responded and it still doesn't feel right? Then you can suggest having a conversation. It's not necessary, but it can help to maintain a good atmosphere and resolve misunderstandings.
Do you still have questions? Please contact us, we are happy to think along with you!