What step follows if a supervisor's response is not satisfactory within 7 days during the grievance process?

In the grievance process, if a supervisor's response is deemed unsatisfactory within the specified timeframe of 7 days, the next step is to proceed with a formal appeal at the second step of the grievance procedure. This formal appeal signifies that the grievance has not been resolved at the supervisory level, prompting the employee to escalate the matter to a higher authority or a designated grievance officer for further review and consideration.

Advancing to this stage ensures that the issue receives additional scrutiny and allows for a structured approach to handling grievances, ensuring that the concerns are addressed adequately. The formal appeal at this level will often involve documentation and may require a meeting to explain the grievance in more detail, fostering a clearer understanding and potentially facilitating a resolution.

The other choices represent different stages or aspects of the grievance process but would be considered inapplicable immediately after the supervisor’s unsatisfactory response.