Manager Resources: Workplace Conduct
Academic Professional

‹ Civil Service | Learning Resources ›

Supervisors and managers are charged with the responsibility of organizing, directing and controlling the work of their employees. One of the most difficult tasks for any supervisor is to administer discipline. An employee may be disciplined for a job performance that is consistently below department standards, infractions of policies or procedures, or misconduct.

Effective feedback that addresses behavior and performance issues should be clear, consistent, and documented. To accomplish this, have a plan ready that can address infractions. Set your team members for success before any discipline issues arise by establishing practices to ensure your direct reports are aware of the performance expectations of their job, and by providing feedback on a regular basis. Use the Performance Improvement Plan (.doc) forms to guide conversations about concerns, and document of your efforts to address infractions and performance issues. This documentation can assist you and the Human Resources department if you need to pursue formal processes.

If you manage an Academic Professional employee whose work performance is unsatisfactory, you should attempt to improve the employee’s performance by providing feedback and outlining desired changes. First, describe observed actions or behaviors that are positive as well as negative. For each negative action or behavior, explain what specific changes the employee can make to reach a satisfactory performance level. If possible, direct the employee to available resources (e.g. training courses, articles, books). If the employee demonstrates the necessary changes, provide positive feedback and recognition.

If attempts to coach an employee do not result in a change and unsatisfactory performance persists, it may be appropriate to initiate the process for issuing a terminal contract.

Resources

Organizational Links

UIC HR Labor and Employee Relations provides services in the areas of labor/management relations, counseling, and support to managers and employees

Policy and Procedures

UIC HR Policy and Procedures

SkillSoft Courses

Handling Difficult Conversations Effectively Effective managers know that the ultimate goal of difficult conversations is to produce positive outcomes. This course identifies the common challenges of difficult conversations and strategies that can be used to handle them. Ways to keep the conversation on track, manage your emotions, and progress the conversation to produce positive outcomes.

Having a Difficult Conversation It’s up to the manager to turn a difficult conversation into a positive experience. This course explains the methods that can be used to have successful difficult conversations. It explores how to share perspectives, find mutual understanding, and work with the subject to design an action plan.