Need to let someone go? The right way of terminating your employees
Employers, business owners, managers etc… you’ve all had this thought at one time or another. It could be because performance, team dynamics, future direction or even the economy. So always keep good documentation at least when the first thought comes to mind. Any warnings?… document. Performance appraisals?…document. Conflicts with other staff?…document. Let there not be a reason you did so unethically. It’s highly unlikely they will bring a lawsuit against you but your don’t want to take that chance as retaining a clean name for your business.
Here are some things to keep in mind when terminating someone:
One: like mentioned about, keep detailed files in the employee records.
Two: Give them the proper notice or pay them out as required by legislation. You can find these details on the Ministry of Labour website here.
Three: Keep this decision in confidence to a selective group of people. Word getting out could be disastrous to the other staff and they will feel unsecured themselves. It will affect performance and division amongst employees and management.
Four: Have a face-to-face with them. Do not avoid the confrontation by putting someone else to do your job, they deserve that respect from you.
Five: Be honest when you can. Some may not believe what you tell them but the few that do will take it to heart and try to improve their short comings and in turn become a better employee somewhere else.
Six: Plan for a team discussion after the employee has departed. Keep your staff assured and positive to keep moving forward doing the good work they have been always doing.
Seven: Filling the vacancy. Post internal first, sometimes your best employees come from referrals and when that happens provide some perks to those employees.
Eight: Be prepared if a complaint comes from the labour board or a letter from a lawyer. Have all your documentation ready.
Terminated employees will take this as a personal shot, even though most of them had a feeling it was coming. Remember that do this with the best possible integrity and put yourself in their shoes first. They have bills, families, and an ego and most of their confidence comes from you. You are the hand that feeds them.