Insubordination Policy
Author: Jill Gormley, Strong and Clear Communications
When to Use
Employee insubordination must be handled swiftly and effectively. Weak or inconsistent responses to insubordination lead to poor morale, decreased productivity and low employee retention. Just as important, lack of uniformity in the application of disciplinary rules can lead to discrimination lawsuits. However, an employer must ensure that policies neither interfere with employees' rights to refrain from certain actions (such as those that may be illegal) nor infringe on employees' rights to engage in protected concerted activities.
An employer should consider implementing this policy to inform employees of what is and is not considered insubordination and the consequences of insubordinate behavior. Managers should refer to the policy whenever they receive a report regarding insubordination.
