Informal Warning Letter

It is good practice to confirm in writing the outcome of any informal discussions held with an employee about minor conduct, behaviour or poor performance issues.

Written confirmation of an informal caution is not a formal warning.

An informal warning merely documents that an informal discussion has been held with the employee, what advice has been given to the employee about where they are going wrong, what assistance will be provided to help them improve and any agreed actions going forward.

This quick and easy to use letter helps managers to communicate:

• observed actions
• joint decisions reached
• improvements required
• timeframe for improvement
• help and assistance to be provided
• next course of action should things not improve (e.g. invitation to a formal disciplinary hearing)