Common use of INFORMAL STEPS Clause in Contracts

INFORMAL STEPS. a. The Employer encourages the maintenance of a positive employee relationship that includes effective communication and feedback between bargaining unit members and between bargaining unit members and their supervisors. Informal attempts to resolve concerns should occur in most cases, where appropriate, prior to taking a formal disciplinary action. The purpose of such informal attempts is to reconcile disputes and concerns early and informally, when that is appropriate, by clarifying the issues involved, resolving misunderstandings, considering alternatives, and noting applicable policies and procedures. b. As part of the informal step, the Chair/Director/Supervisor or designee will meet with the bargaining unit member to discuss relevant issues and/or concerns and provide the bargaining unit member with an opportunity to respond. The bargaining unit member has the right to Union representation at this meeting. If the parties agree to resolve the matter, within ten (10) working days of the meeting the Chair/Director/Supervisor or designee shall document the agreed upon resolution and provide a copy to the bargaining unit member. A copy of the resolution shall be maintained by the Chair/Director/Supervisor. If the parties do not agree to a resolution, the Employer may choose to proceed with formal disciplinary steps.