Is There No Easy Way to Fire Someone?

Terminating an employee is never an easy task. Even if it’s your first or tenth time, the breakup of an employee and their job, probably doesn’t get easier. But here are some factors to keep in mind to make the process as friendly as possible.

Prior to the decision to terminate, take the questionable employee aside and explain the situation. Feedback as to why you’re not satisfied with performance, attitude, behavior, or other issues is important. Explain that this is their warning and improvement is expected. However, it is important not to put the employee on defense when discussing the problems.

If the professional problems are not resolved, be sure to make documentation. This allows more feedback to be given if another warning need issued. Once the decision has been made to terminate, if there is no documentation some issues could arise, such as wrongful termination.

Once in place, pull together all the written warnings, salary information, and exchanged correspondence. All these documents will allow the process to go smoothly because there will be no denying proof of unsatisfactory work.

Write up any subsequent contracts, such as whether he or she will still receive medical coverage, severance, and so forth. This will ensure there are no assumed guidelines or expectations on the former employee and the company.

Finally, it is highly suggested to have another colleague or HR person sit in on the process.

By Stephanie Colangelo, Flexhire Associate