Engineering Manager interview question · Most asked
How do you handle an engineer who has been underperforming for months?
Summary
Involve HR early and follow policy and local law; give clear, specific feedback that resets expectations; diagnose the cause; run a supported informal plan with written expectations and weekly check-ins; and move to a formal plan only if needed — designed so the person can genuinely succeed.
Longer Answer
Avoiding the issue is unfair to the person and the team; jumping to a formal process without clarity and support is unfair too. Typical support: pairing, a mentor, reduced scope. Documentation protects everyone. Most cases improve; the rest end with a fair, respectful outcome. This is general practice — requirements differ by country.
Key Points
- HR and policy first
- Clear expectations and support
- Documented, fair process
Explanation
What interviewers look for
Courage, fairness and procedural awareness.
Red flags
- Waiting and hoping
- Starting a formal plan as an exit route
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