What Is a Warning Notice for Performance Issues?

A Warning Notice for Performance Issues is a formal document issued by an employer to an employee to address substandard job performance. This notice outlines specific performance deficiencies, sets clear expectations for improvement, and details the consequences of continued underperformance.

This document is essential for HR departments, managers, and business owners to maintain workplace productivity, provide constructive feedback, and document performance issues in case further action is required.

Why Use Our Free Performance Warning Notice Template?

HR-Approved & Legally Sound

Created by HR professionals to ensure fair, compliant, and constructive feedback for performance management.

Completely Free

Download a high-quality, lawyer-reviewed performance warning notice at no cost, saving time and legal fees.

Customizable

Easily adapt the template to address specific performance issues, expectations, and timelines for improvement.

User-Friendly

A simple format with clear instructions makes the document easy to complete and issue.

Key Features of Our Performance Warning Notice Template

• Employee Details & Specific Performance Issues
  Clearly outlines the employee’s name, role, and specific performance concerns (e.g., missed deadlines, low-quality work, failure to meet targets).
• Reference to Job Expectations
  Links performance issues to the employee’s job description, goals, or KPIs for clarity.
• Corrective Actions & Improvement Plan
  Specifies measurable performance expectations, timelines for improvement, and support offered (e.g., training, mentoring).
• Employee Acknowledgment & Signature
  Provides space for the employee to acknowledge receipt and understanding of the warning notice.
• Legal & HR Compliance
  Ensures proper documentation for future performance evaluations or disciplinary actions.

Who Should Use This Template?

• HR Departments: Maintain consistent documentation of employee performance issues in compliance with company policies.
• Managers & Supervisors: Provide clear feedback on performance issues and outline expectations for improvement.
• Business Owners: Ensure legal compliance and documentation when addressing performance concerns.

How to Use the Template

1. Download the Template
   Click below to access your Warning Notice for Performance Issues instantly.
2. Customize the Notice
   Fill in details such as the employee’s name, specific performance issues, corrective actions, and deadlines for improvement.
3. Issue the Notice
   Provide the notice to the employee in a formal meeting, discussing performance concerns and improvement plans.
4. Obtain Employee Acknowledgment
   Have the employee sign the notice to confirm receipt and understanding. If the employee refuses to sign, document the refusal.

FAQs

Q: Is this warning notice legally binding?
While it’s not a contract, the notice serves as an official record of performance issues and can support further disciplinary action if needed.

Q: Can this warning lead to termination?
Yes, if performance does not improve after warnings, this documentation can support termination decisions.

Q: How many warnings should be given before termination?
Most companies follow a progressive discipline policy, including verbal warnings, written warnings, and then termination if no improvement is made.

Q: What if the employee refuses to sign the warning notice?
If the employee refuses to sign, document the refusal and have a witness (such as an HR representative) acknowledge the situation.