How to Fire an Employee Properly

Firing employees is a part of any position in the management capacity. While it may not be the most enjoyable aspect of employee management, there are ways to fire someone in a manner that keeps everyone's self esteem intact while satisfying all legal categories as well. Here's how to fire an employee.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Ask for a private meeting with the employee.
   
   If you are going to fire an employee, do it in private, in a calm and professional manner. Never fire an employee in front of customers or other employees.

2. Cite the reason for firing.
   
   Provide specific examples for the reason you're firing an employee (ex: late for the 3rd time, list prior write ups, complaints). The employee should have a clear concept of why they're being let go.

3. Put it in writing.
   
   When firing an employee, put the reasons for the termination into a letter, including all details (date of fire, signatures, offenses, etc). It is a good idea to use verbiage from the employee handbook of job description in order to protect your management decisions.

4. Document the firing.
   
   Again, to protect your management strategy and decisions, closely follow your company's firing policy and protocol in order to protect your own job.

Resources

• How to Write an Annual Performance Review
• How to Increase Employee Retention
• How to Advertise Small Business for Cheap