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Carolyn Moir-Grant
With over 30 years of experience at Allstaff, Carolyn has been a guiding force in shaping the agency’s reputation as a trusted recruitment partner.
Recruiting new team members is a significant investment of time and resources. Sometimes, despite best efforts, a new hire may not meet expectations. At Allstaff, we know how important it is to address these situations promptly, fairly, and in a way that protects both your organisation and your reputation as an employer of choice. Here’s a strategic guide for Scottish employers and managers on how to respond when a new hire isn’t working out.
It’s vital to spot early indicators that a new hire may be struggling. Red flags include missed deadlines, repeated errors, poor communication, or difficulty adapting to the company culture. Distinguish between behavioural issues (such as attitude or attendance) and performance shortfalls (such as skill gaps). Ask yourself: Is this simply part of the onboarding process, or are there deeper signs of misalignment? Most new hires need time to adjust, but persistent challenges beyond the initial adaptation period warrant closer attention.
Before taking action, invest time in understanding the underlying issues:
Collate insights from a variety of perspectives:
Often, new hires need clarity. Revisit their job description and outline clear, achievable standards:
If issues persist, a formal PIP may be necessary:
Sometimes, additional support is key:
Performance challenges can sometimes stem from interpersonal issues:
Assess improvement using objective data:
When it’s time to decide:
If termination becomes necessary:
Reduce the risk of mismatches by strengthening recruitment:
A strong start builds success:
Proactive communication supports retention:
Every placement offers an opportunity to learn:
Final Thoughts
Managing a new hire who isn’t meeting expectations is never easy, but a structured, compassionate approach safeguards your team, protects your business, and preserves your employer reputation. Allstaff is here to support you every step of the way from recruitment and onboarding to ongoing people management. If you need guidance, training, or a confidential sounding board, get in touch with our team.