What characterizes the method of progressive discipline?

The method of progressive discipline is characterized by an approach that involves escalating the severity of consequences for repeated undesirable behaviors. This system is designed to give employees an opportunity to correct their actions before facing more serious penalties.

Initially, when an issue arises, an employer may start with a verbal warning or a less severe consequence. If the inappropriate behavior continues, more serious measures such as written warnings, suspensions, or eventually termination may be implemented. This structured approach not only aims to address behavioral issues but also encourages employees to improve their performance, understanding clearly the consequences of their actions over time.

In contrast, immediate termination for first-time offenses does not allow for rehabilitation and prevents employees from learning from their mistakes. Tailoring responses to individual behavior can be a part of many disciplinary systems but is not the defining characteristic of progressive discipline. Summarized evaluations of employee performance, while important in the context of performance management, do not specifically relate to the handling of disciplinary actions in the same way that escalating consequences do.