Staff member with a side hustle
I operate a small recruitment agency and recently found out that one of my employees has been privately billing clients and using a personal email address to handle candidate communications. I’m not sure how much he has earned on the side while employed full-time with us.
What should my next steps be?
RCadmin
It’s important to approach this situation carefully and methodically. Here are some steps you can consider:
Gather Evidence: Before taking any action, compile any evidence you have regarding the staff member’s moonlighting activities. This may include emails, billing records, or any other documentation that indicates they have been working privately.
Review Company Policies: Check your company’s employee handbook or policies regarding outside employment and conflicts of interest. This will help you understand the framework within which you can address the situation.
Consult Legal Advice: Given the potential legal implications, it may be wise to seek legal counsel before confronting the employee. This ensures you are aware of your rights and obligations as an employer.
Prepare for a Meeting: Plan to have a private discussion with the employee. It’s important to approach the conversation with an open mind and allow them to explain their side of the story.
Conduct the Meeting: Sit down with the staff member and express your concerns. Present the evidence you have and give them the opportunity to respond. Listen carefully to their explanation.
Decide on Consequences: Depending on the outcome of your discussion, you will need to decide on the appropriate course of action. This could range from a warning to termination, depending on the severity of the breach and your company’s policies.
Implement Preventative Measures: After resolving the situation, consider instituting clear policies regarding outside work and ensuring all employees understand them. This can help prevent similar issues in the future.
Monitor and Evaluate: Keep an eye on your other staff members and the overall work environment to ensure that no other similar issues arise.
Overall, it’s crucial to handle the situation professionally and with discretion, ensuring that any actions taken are justifiable and documented.