What is positive (progressive) discipline? What would be an example of how it functions?

Question

What will be an ideal response

Answer 1

• A positive discipline program (also known as positive counseling) attempts to change employee behavior without invoking punishment. An example of positive discipline or counseling is when an employee has been nonproductive and non-punctual, has caused interpersonal problems with co-workers, and/or has other problems on the job. To this point, the employee has been in control of the situation—on the offensive, one might say—whereas the supervisor and other co-workers have been on the defensive—jeopardizing the morale and productivity of the workplace. The preferred approach is to try to salvage him because of the agency's investment in time, funds, and training. The supervisor first explains to the employee why it is important that he improve (for reasons related to productivity, morale, and so on) and the benefits he might realize from improvement (promotions, pay raises, bonuses). Also outlined are what can happen if he does not show adequate improvement (demotion, transfer, termination). Now the supervisor gives him a certain time period (say, 30, 60, or 90 days) in which to improve.
• In this hypothetical example, the supervisor is now on the offensive, thereby putting the employee on the defensive—and in control of his destiny; if he fails to perform, the supervisor should give him a warning, and if the situation continues, he will be terminated. If he sues or files a grievance, the supervisor can prove that every effort was made to allow him to salvage his position. Thus, subordinates are afforded an incentive to improve their behavior while at the same time making the department less vulnerable to successful lawsuits.