Compassionate candor is the best way to provide feedback to employees who are underperforming. We should note to the person that we’ve observed a drop in their performance and ask if there are any challenges that we can provide support with. We should cite specific examples of issues and negative trends observed, as well as provide objective data to support this if possible. We should let them know that they are failing to meet expectations and, if they’ve said there are no mitigating factors, request that they recommit to being diligent.
If the person does cite issues in their home life, health, etc. that is contributing to their performance issues, we should ask them what would help them. It is important to empower the employee to ask for what they need rather than jumping in to rescue them. If the employee has no immediate suggestions, give them time for self evaluation and set a deadline of when you will follow up to discuss their ideas.