Rigid progressive discipline policies. Most employers follow some form of progressive discipline for performance problems or misconduct (attendance problems, difficulties getting along with coworkers, or missing deadlines, for example). You may choose to start with a verbal warning, followed by a written warning for a second offense, followed by a probationary period or suspension, then termination for subsequent problems. Whatever system you implement, make sure to keep your options open.

But don't obligate yourself to follow a particular disciplinary pattern for every employee in every circumstance; otherwise, you may find it difficult to fire an employee for truly egregious behavior.