How long should you wait before destroying memos if an employee remains out of trouble?

The recommended timeframe for retaining memos, particularly those related to employee performance or conduct, is often guided by best practices in human resource management and organizational policy. Retaining such documents for 6 months to 1 year allows for adequate monitoring of an employee's situation, especially after any issues have been resolved. This period strikes a balance, ensuring that you have ample documentation of an employee's behavior in case any future concerns arise.

Additionally, retaining these records longer than 6 months provides a sufficient historical context that can be beneficial if an employee's conduct changes or if you need to substantiate decisions related to promotions, terminations, or disciplinary actions. If an employee remains out of trouble during this time, then it is reasonable to consider the memos no longer necessary and take steps towards their destruction while ensuring compliance with any relevant laws or organizational policies on record retention.