Key Concept - Informal Discussion

Informal discussion is a concept introduced in the new Public Service Employment Act (PSEA). It is basically a conversation between a person who has been eliminated from consideration in an internal appointment process and the person(s) responsible for making that decision. With no set rules or format, informal discussion provides an opportunity to share information so that the person(s) responsible can explain the decision, and the person eliminated can better understand those reasons.

	Informal discussions in internal appointment processes, held between managers and employees, will promote a positive work environment.

Informal discussion may take place at any stage during the appointment process before a final decision is made. Its focus is on the assessment of the person who has been eliminated, rather than on the other persons in the appointment process. Informal discussion also gives the manager an opportunity to correct any errors or oversights before the decision is finalized.

Persons should be told as soon as possible of the decision to eliminate them from consideration for appointment. Informal discussion can help promote a positive work environment, and it supports the values of transparency and fairness.

Informal discussion is not recourse.

Participating in informal discussion does not affect a person's right to make a complaint to the Public Service Staffing Tribunal.

For more information, please consult the Guides and Tools section of the PSEA Web site.