An article on the businessnewsdaily.com website provides us a checklist.
- What is the main reason for the dismissal? What documentation do you have to support your decision?
- What is the history of the employee with your company?
- Does the termination help to achieve business objectives, is there business justification for this move?
- Do you treat all employees the same – would you fire others for the same violation of company policy?
- Are company policies and procedures for termination being followed?
Your goal is to be very straightforward and to the point. You also need to be sure of the facts you mention as you deliver the news. Remember to avoid mentioning personal issues. The conversation shouldn’t be longer than 10 minutes.
Preparing for an employee's termination
Actually announcing the news is always the hardest part. It will surely affect the remaining staff, especially their morale.
Of course, this kind of decision has a much bigger and immediate impact on the worker you decided to fire. There is an adverse financial and emotional impact. The employee will probably be upset and will ask some questions, so be ready for it.
Show empathy and respect
Role-playing the termination will help managers with the actual delivery of the news. Think about providing this kind of training in order to help your managers to handle the situation in a sincere, professional manner.
They should be able to answer all their questions respectfully. If we treat the person with dignity and respect, we minimize the risk of additional hard feelings.
-jk-