What is the first step in a progressive discipline program?

What is the first step in a progressive discipline program?

• A. Suspension
• B. Termination
• C. Written warning
• D. Oral warning

Answer: (D)

Progressive discipline starts with addressing behavior early in an informal way. An oral warning communicates that a specific behavior or performance issue is not acceptable and clearly states what needs to change. It gives the employee a chance to correct the issue without immediately imposing formal penalties, while also creating a record of the conversation for future reference. If the behavior continues, the process escalates to a written warning, then to suspension, and finally to termination. Suspension and termination are too severe to be the first response, and a written warning is more formal than an oral warning but comes after the initial, informal notice.

Progressive discipline starts with addressing behavior early in an informal way. An oral warning communicates that a specific behavior or performance issue is not acceptable and clearly states what needs to change. It gives the employee a chance to correct the issue without immediately imposing formal penalties, while also creating a record of the conversation for future reference. If the behavior continues, the process escalates to a written warning, then to suspension, and finally to termination. Suspension and termination are too severe to be the first response, and a written warning is more formal than an oral warning but comes after the initial, informal notice.