The Challenge
Few issues are more frustrating than inconsistent performance. It’s not always either good enough or bad enough to warrant disciplinary action.
Leaders often feel caught between wanting to support an employee and needing to protect the business.
As an SME leader, you might be asking yourself:
- How do I address performance concerns without demotivating the employee?
- What if I already raised the issue, but nothing changed?
- How do I keep the process fair and compliant while acting quickly?
- Can I avoid escalation, but still manage risk?
You’re not alone—and you don’t need to figure this out by yourself.
How LighterHR Helps
We help you turn performance concerns into clear, manageable steps—ensuring fair opportunity, compliance, and protection for your business.
Our support includes:
- Acting as your sounding board before starting difficult conversations
- Drafting performance improvement plans, scripts, and documentation in plain English
- Coaching you through each stage—whether it leads to improvement or the need for further action
- Helping you build a fair process so you’re protected, even if action is required later
Managing Employee Performance with Clarity and Confidence
Managing employee performance is a challenge many SME leaders face. Whether it’s dealing with underperformance, setting clear expectations, or building formal improvement plans, the process can feel frustrating and time-consuming.
At LighterHR, we provide practical, jargon-free support that helps you address performance issues fairly, stay compliant with UK employment law, and give employees the chance to succeed.
Levels of Support
Choose the level of support that fits your needs:
Advisory – talk it through, plan next steps, and gain clarity via phone or email.
Guided – we prepare documentation and talk you through the process step-by-step.
Fully Managed – we handle the process end-to-end so you can focus on running your business.
Why SMEs Trust Us
Plain-spoken clarity — no jargon, just practical advice you can act on
CIPD-qualified experience — grounded in real-world SME HR challenges
Compliance-focused — processes aligned with employment law and ACAS guidance
Human approach — because performance is ultimately about people, not just metrics
Client Story
“Your services have surpassed any HR company or individual we have worked with, and our consultant has been a lifesaver on so many occasions.
I will continue to recommend your services.”
Joseph Gleeson
Director of Operations, Caroline Baker
Key Questions
What if I’ve already raised the issue, but no improvement followed?
We’ll help you articulate concerns clearly, avoid common pitfalls, and plan structured next steps.
Can this be handled informally first?
Absolutely—our approach starts informally, with guidance to escalate only if improvement doesn’t follow.
What if the employee challenges the process later?
Our support ensures you follow fair procedures and build a clear record—even if further action is needed down the line.
Ready to Act?
Nobody wants to start an under-performance process—but with the right guidance, it can be fair and effective.