DH: critical email before impending review

[eloise11]

On a day's leave, DH received a couple of phone calls from a line manager alleging a two very minor administrative errors which would, manager said, cause colleagues stress and embarrassment. DH doubts this very much.

Later that day, he was sent an email reiterating points already made earlier face to face in relation to a lesson observation and due to be discussed on his return to work. The email, which was rather long winded and disconnected, went on to imply that there was a history of admin errors, which is not the case at all.

Now, DH is wondering if the manager is attempting to build a case against him (this is a private adult college with the usual insecurity of employment issues) or if this is simply clumsiness on the very young manager's part. He's thinking about seeing the school director (with whom he's on good terms) to ask for his advice and in the hopes that the director will speak to the line manager about the very clearly officious and potentially damaging (this email lying on DH's record no doubt) communication. If the director does so, DH feels, it would put him in a far stronger position regarding the young line manager.On the other hand, he's wondering if this is too much of a risk and if he should simply speak directly to the line manager. Either way, he's due a review soon with the school director, the result of which will significantly affect whether or not he gets continued work.

Many thanks for any thoughts.

[wickedwaterwitch]

I'd send carefully worded, polite and professional reply, refuting the points made. I wouldn't be happy with that email standing as an accurate record of events.

[wickedwaterwitch]

And I'd also offer a meeting to discuss it.
And takes notes during that meeting and follow up,in writing
And read the grievance policy