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Question:
I am the manager of a small UK operation of an American conglomerate and my boss is in America. I handle all disciplinary matters including giving warnings and dismissing. But what should I do if someone wishes to appeal against one of my decisions?
Answer:
You have two options. First see if you can find someone outside the organisation who is acceptable to both parties who will hear the appeal. Second, and a common arrangement, is for you to agree to delay hearing the appeal for a few days, then deal with it as fairly and objectively as you can. Consider, for example, did you follow the procedure? Did you act fairly? What if it had happened to a member of your family – would you consider the process and result to have been fair? Make a note of your considerations and explain them fully to the employee. If you act as fairly and objectively as you can you should be able to defend yourself successfully against any criticism or legal action.
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2 Responses
fair appeal
Just because your boss is American does not mean he/she is incapable of dealing with an appeal albeit this may be done via teleconference or email
face to face is best but objectivity is better
Appeal Problem
Often having a fresh pair of eyes helps the employee to recognise and accept that their case has been handled objectively. I am an experienced Appeals and Grievance Manager and can do this type of work on an ad hoc basis. If you would like to get in touch, please feel free to contact me via this website.