In general, performance relates to the quantity, quality, accuracy, and timeliness of work products. Conduct issues relate to compliance with work rules. Performance problems usually involve a “can’t do” issue while conduct problems generally involve a “won’t do” or “should not have done” issue. For example, if an employee is making too many errors in work products, it is usually because he/she lacks the training, ability, or experience to properly perform the work (can’t do) and may need additional training or coaching.

Conversely, if an employee is frequently late or absent (won’t do), it is usually not because he/she lacks the training, ability, or experience to report to work. Counseling and corrective action, rather than training, is usually appropriate.