Subject: Team Member Engaging in Outside Work
I’ve come across a concerning situation at my small recruitment firm: one of my employees has been secretly billing clients on the side and using a personal email address to communicate with candidates. I’m unaware of the extent of the side work or how much he has charged while employed full-time with us.
What should my next steps be in addressing this issue?
RCadmin
It’s concerning to discover that a member of your staff is moonlighting and potentially undermining your business. Here are the steps you should consider taking:
Gather Evidence: Before taking any action, collect all relevant information regarding the employee’s activities. Look for communication records, client interactions, or any documentation that indicates they have been billing clients privately.
Review Company Policies: Check your company’s policies and employment contracts regarding secondary employment, conflicts of interest, and confidentiality. This will inform you of any breaches.
Consult with HR or Legal Counsel: Depending on the severity of the situation, it may be wise to consult with your HR department or a legal expert. They can provide guidance on how to handle the situation appropriately and ensure you adhere to labor laws.
Plan a Meeting: Schedule a private meeting with the employee to discuss your findings. Prepare to listen to their side of the story; there may be factors you’re not aware of.
Discuss Consequences: Depending on the employee’s explanation and the policies in place, decide on the appropriate consequences. This could range from a warning to termination of employment.
Implement Preventive Measures: After resolving this issue, consider implementing clearer policies about side jobs and monitoring practices if necessary to prevent similar situations in the future.
Communicate with Your Team: Once the situation is addressed, it may be beneficial to reinforce your company policies to your remaining staff to avoid misunderstandings and ensure everyone is on the same page.
Addressing this promptly and professionally is key to maintaining trust within your team and your client base.