Written warning

[badgerread]

I had my appraisal on Friday and received a written warning that I was making slips and mistakes (I'm an office manager/PA). I admit I have made some mistakes in draft letters and invoices but they are checked by my Manager before going out. I was told at the end of March I would be offered support to ensure these mistakes do not happen as often, I haven't received any support and no mistakes have been mentioned before my written warning last week.

There are a number of points in the letter that I want clarification on as I don't agree with them. However I am really unhappy in my job. My boss is a narcissric, sexist, racist pig and I can't bear working for him. He is the boss and there are only 4 of us in the business. There is no HR. I have also been there under 2 years.

Do I challenge my written warning or just find another job and hope he gives me a good reference?

I am so unhappy there and dread going to work. It's obvious this is the start of the disciplinary procedure and he wants me out so do I say anything or just carry on until I find something else? I have an interview next Tuesday for a promising role.

[flopsyandjim]

Find another job because it does appear you may lose your job soon. However, why not do some training courses outside of working hours to improve your skills? He may be a sexist pig, but if you are making mistakes he's within his rights to discipline you.

[badgerread]

I appreciate that he is, it just seems very harsh and with no warning...

[daimbars]

Sadly I think he's trying to get you out, but sounds like you'll be having a lucky escape. Good luck with the interview on Tuesday!

[badgerread]

I think you're absolutely right Daim. I'm having a meeting with him Thursday to point out a few fatal flaws in his argument (i.e. apparently he is meant to warn me it's a disciplinary meeting but instead disguised it as an annual appraisal!)

It's really soul destroying...

Thank you for the good luck wishes!

[RoseanneBarred]

Op, are you in a union? It does sound like he has not followed any sort of official process.

[Emma198]

Sounds like he might be starting the managing out process. I'd get on the look out for something new.

[flowery]

If you've been there less than two years then him not following the correct procedure to give you a formal warning will only matter if you go past two years and he subsequently wants to rely on this warning to enable him to dismiss you later.

If you're that unhappy anyway, and he doesn't sound like a very pleasant individual to work with, then focus on getting something new.

If you were offered support and this hasn't materialised, make sure you ask for it.

[Polarbearflavour]

I would be looking for a new job and be wary of these tiny companies with no HR department in future employers!