Blake Glover’s recent job performance needs to be addressed. You hired Blake over a year ago because he was highly qualified for the job, and in his first year, you and other managers were impressed by his excellent work and potential for leadership in the company. However, over the last three months, Blake has been regularly late to work, has called-in sick more than five times, and when he is at work, he has spent most of his time away from his desk, chatting with other employees and otherwise off-task. Upper management agrees that his personality fits well in the company, and you want to keep him; however, his recent behavior cannot be ignored.

As the manager of Blake’s department, you have the task of disciplining him with a formal, written warning, which must include an assessment of Blake’s performance to date and a specific improvement plan. Your plan should include measurable goals for Blake that will allow both Blake and the company to track his improvement within the timeframe you see fit. The warning should also articulate the consequences for Blake if he does not meet these goals.