If an employee is not performing well, what is the first thing to check?

The first thing to check when an employee is not performing well is the job description. The job description outlines the essential duties, responsibilities, and expectations for the role. By reviewing it, you can determine if the employee is clear about what is required of them and whether their performance aligns with those outlined responsibilities. If there is a gap, it could indicate that the employee does not fully understand their role or that there may be discrepancies in expectations.

In contrast, a job specification focuses on the qualifications required for the position, such as education and experience, which might not directly address performance issues. A job analysis involves a comprehensive study of a job to understand its requirements and responsibilities, which could be beneficial but is more complex and time-consuming. Lastly, checking the work schedule might be relevant if time management or availability is an issue, but it wouldn’t necessarily address the core performance expectations set forth in the job description itself.