Last updated 10 November 2026
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In short
Raise it early and in private. Talk about the work, not the person, ask what is getting in the way and agree support for a set period.
Performance and well-being are closely linked. If you raise a drop in performance early, the person is more likely to tell you what is wrong while it is still easier to help.
What to do
- Prepare examples Note specific, recent changes in the work, such as missed deadlines or more errors than usual.
- Talk about the work, not the person “The last three reports came in late” is fair. “You don’t seem committed” is a judgement about the person.
- Ask what is getting in the way For example: “Is anything making work harder than usual at the moment?” Let them share as much or as little as they want.
- Agree support for a set period, such as moving deadlines, changing priorities or clarifying their role for four to six weeks.
- Agree clear next steps Agree what good work looks like, when you will review it and where they can get help, such as your EAP.
- Review on the date you agreed If things have improved, reduce the support gradually. If not, talk again about what else might help.
Watch out for
- Support does not mean lowering expectations indefinitely. Adjustments for a set period are fairer to both the employee and the team.
- Do not guess at a diagnosis or ask for medical details.
- If the person tells you about a mental health condition, keep it private and consider reasonable adjustments. Once the Workplace Fairness Act takes effect, treating someone unfairly because of a mental health condition can lead to a claim (see Should the government make workplace well-being mandatory before companies act?).
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CourseAdvanced Psychological First AidOn empathetic and supportive conversationsSee dates and fees on Wayfinder →
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ArticleManaging Performance Conversations When Well-Being Is AffectedRelated questionWhat do I do when a colleague is struggling?Related questionAn employee is coming back after mental health-related leave. How do we plan their return?
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See all questions. This is general guidance, not legal or clinical advice. Can’t find your answer? Email hello@wellbeingchampions.sg.