Verbal Warning

[wizzywoo1972]

I have been given a verbal warning for "Inconsistent work". Basically, I have been working full time for a company for 11 months, I can only think of two occasions in that period where work would be considered inconsistent. I have not been advised of any other occasions, even though I have gone above and beyond my job specs over the last few months.

What procedures should my employer follow? Should this informal meeting be confirmed in writing? Can I appeal their decision?

Would really appreciate any advice as I have never come across this in my 18 years of previously exemplary work experience!

[dot.hawkes]

I have to record any conversation on paper and both myself and the member of staff have to agree to the accuracy of the account and sign the sheet. A copy goes to H/R and a copy is kept in their training file. An action plan is then decided upon to help the employee improve in the area that was lacking. Have you been offered this?

[wizzywoo1972]

No nothing of the kind. I was taken into a meeting room with my supervisor and manager. Shown the paperwork where I had been inconsistent and told that it wasn't acceptable and that I had to be more careful in the future. At no time were the contents of our conversation noted and no further action plan discussed.

Do you recommend I take this up with my manager tomorrow?

[terambulan]

The last occasion.....what did you do? Did you undersell goods, cost your employer a loss?

[buildersmate]

It is good practice for an employer to confirm a verbal warning, even though that sounds daft.
Since the employer is using the first stage of the disciplinary procedure, yes, you should be allowed to appeal it. What does the disciplinery procedure / grievance procedure for your company say about it? Your company doesn't appear to have one? - I'm not surprised.
Personally I would let it lie, however, I suggest that you WRITE YOUR OWN NOTES of what happened, sign it date it, and keep it safe.
If things get nasty again later, and there is reference made to the earlier warning, you have your notes to refer to - and the employer probably will have nothing.
Verbal warnings typically last 12 months - again the Code should say - again if you weren't told, that is poor.
Just be aware that an awful lot of cases that come to Employment Tribunal fail for the employer because they did not a follow a reasonable or fair PROCESS, then fail because the ACTION by the employee was inappropriate.

[kinell]

I thought that as you have only been there 11 months they can say bye bye for any (non-discriminatory) reason at their will, without following any procedures, just thanks but no thanks!

One of our legal eagles will prob confirm the 12 month rule.

[wizzywoo1972]

Thanks guys for your comments, I did go to work today and didn't pull a sicky! Much to their surprise albeit the atmosphere a little strained!

No I do not and have not been given a handbook, it would appear that rules and procedures are adapted to suit; however, I have been working in the office environment for 18 years and too long in the tooth to take such insults from an employee who believes they are above the law.

Watch this space....!