Show Cause Letter vs. Warning Letter

Don’t get it wrong, because many do.

🔴  Show Cause Letter
This is NOT a punishment.
This letter is served to the employee to give them a chance explain what happened why it happened, and most importantly, to respond before the company decides what action to take.

It’s part of a fair process.
👉 It’s called a “show cause” because you’re being asked to show cause i.e. give valid reasons why disciplinary action shouldn’t be taken against you.

âš« Warning Letter
Now, THIS is a punishment.
The decision has been made after hearing your explanation.
This letter says the employee has messed up, the company have evidence and here’s your official warning.

And for it to stand in court, the warning must be specific, clear, and based on facts.

It’s always recommended to issue a Show Cause Letter first to ask for an explanation before the company decide to serve a Warning Letter.

Let’s do the HR process right. Don’t rush.

Period.

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AuntyHRâ„¢

Also known as Professional Bimbo

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Ku Sim Ling, fondly known as AuntyHRâ„¢ on social media, is a seasoned HR expert with 20 years of experience in the workforce solutions industry. With half a million followers across LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok, she's influencing the HR landscape from Malaysia.

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