Speak to the employee, on a timely basis, about the specific reason for the counseling session. Describe specific, observable, measurable and/or unacceptable conduct. Be prepared, have the facts in hand before you meet. State the effect of the problem on the work environment or on the employee's performance.
Describe the behavior. Cite specific examples. Clarify your expectations. You may want to use specific examples in order to ensure that the employee understands. State the probable action to be taken if the offense is repeated or deficiency persists. Offer the employee an opportunity to sign the memo.
The basic stages of counseling are: 1) Developing the client/clinician relationship; 2) Clarifying and assessing the presenting problem or situation; 3) Identifying and setting counseling or treatment goals; 4) Designing and implementing interventions; and 5) Planning, termination, and follow-up.
Clearly state performance expectations and seek confirmation that the employee understands those expectations. Focus on the poor performance, not on personalities or other distractions. Always maintain a constructive tone, along with a calm and professional demeanor. Seek cooperation, NOT confrontation.
In counseling there is normally a familiar pattern of sessions - Introduction, Information Gathering, Discussion, Conclusion and Homework! What follows is the framework for an Initial Visit, Middle Visit, and Final Visit.