SAMPLE LETTER N:
WRITTEN WARNING
POOR WORK PERFORMANCE
Applies to: PROFESSIONAL/ADMINISTRATIVE EMPLOYEES
M E M O R A N D U M
To: Chad D. McNamara
Research Assistant I Health Science
Emp I.D. # 0000.0010
DOH-August 5, 20XX
From: Mary Beth Schnitzer, Ph.D.
Research Investigator
Date: February 17, 20XX
Subject: Work Performance
(History)
(Problems)
Chad, your responsibilities in the laboratory include ordering supplies, and maintaining cell
culture lines. We have had several discussions over the past few months about determining
what supplies need to be ordered as well as your timeliness in placing the orders. You
agreed that you would establish more frequent inventory cycles to determine what supplies
were low and be more diligent in placing orders at the beginning of the week. While
inventory levels have improved somewhat since we talked, it is a result of my continual
reminders. However, improvement is still needed in placing supply orders timely. More
specifically, on March 4, 20XX, there was a delay in starting Phase II of our project
because you did not place the special order for flasks and pipettes. Consequently, we did
not have enough equipment to begin our work. As you know, time is of the essence. This
delay could have easily been avoided.
In addition, I was concerned that your cells do not appear to be growing. You confirmed
that they are not and that you did not follow the instructions outlined in the protocol for
growing the cells. As a result, they are now contaminated and cannot be used. We have
lost valuable time as well as lab resources.
(Action &
Consequenc
e)
(Expectations)
Given the continuance of performance issues, I am giving you a written warning. Your
performance must improve immediately or further disciplinary action, up to and including
discharge, will result. You are encouraged to focus more attention on the accuracy of your
work to avoid unnecessary delays and errors on orders, and to review the protocol for
maintaining cell lines regularly to ensure the growth of these cells.
I requested that you develop a checklist for ordering supplies and look forward to seeing
your first draft when we meet on Monday. I will continue to monitor your work and give
you feedback as needed.
Cc: Department File
Human Resources File