Common HR Mistakes

Common HR mistakes are rarely decisions taken in bad faith. They are ordinary shortcuts under time pressure.

• Acting on a performance concern that was never raised with the person in writing.
• Dismissing without a clear reason, a chance to respond, or an allowed support person.
• Handling a complaint informally because it seemed minor, then having nothing recorded when it recurs.
• Relying on a probation period as though it removed the need for fair process.
• Keeping incomplete time and pay records, which shifts the burden onto the employer.

Every one of these is a documentation failure before it is anything else. The underlying decision is very often defensible on the facts. What is missing is any evidence that it was reached properly at the time.

The Fair Work Commission considers these matters. This is general information rather than legal advice, and obligations vary by state and territory.

See Sentrient’s records management software and performance improvement plans.