Employee Termination - Prepare Properly
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For several reasons, managers are uneasy about telling employees that they are being laid off or terminated for cause. Even in difficult situations, human resource consultants suggest employers maintain their professionalism and help the other person retain a sense of dignity. Here are some suggestions:
- Be prepared and think about your own safety. If you anticipate that there may be hostility as a result of your announcement, plan to have assistance nearby.- Do not allow yourself to get caught off guard. Plan carefully what you will say and rehearse it if you need to.
- Consider the room where you will deliver the room. Is it possible for others to easily overhear loud voices, sensitive information, etc.? Is it possible for your to find yourself trapped between the person and an exit? Is it possible for someone to injure you easily?
-Remember to preserve the person's dignity. Be polite and respectful and deliver the bad news in private. That said, you don't have to be alone to deliver news "in private." You can have someone else present as a safety, legal precaution.
- Take the time to listen with empathy. Imagine how you would feel if you were being told you were terminated.
- Be prepared to offer something, even if you cannot give the person what they want, try to offer a reference, a suggestion for other work, or a final paycheck.
