Is doing the right thing enough?

A case study showing the need for basic HR training for people managers

We have recently supported an organisation run by volunteers with a tricky employment situation.

Here the employer genuinely believed they were doing the right thing and were certainly supportive to the employee but they missed some of the key steps in a disciplinary process as defined by the Acas Code of Practice which supports fair decision making. They had no awareness of these steps and their omission left them exposed to a potential employment tribunal claim.

It brings to light the essential need for some basic employment rights training for anyone that has people management responsibilities.

Fortunately some swift education and intervention rescued that particular situation and resulted in the risk being managed and a good outcome. I was very impressed that the employers in this situation did not shy away from their responsibilities – after all, their involvement in the organisation was on a community driven voluntary basis.  They embraced the learning and the subsequent actions that were required of them.

So the moral of this story is:

1. Know that in all people management there is a fundamental principle of establishing the facts and give employees a right to reply before taking any action.
2. Get a little training so you know the basic principles and can recognise when to ask for help.
3. Don’t ignore escalating situations. Tackle issues at the outset and nip them in the bud.
4. If in any doubt, ask! Don’t forget our free Ask Us service.