Involuntary terminations occur when the employer determines it is time to end the relationship with the employee. While these difficult moments are a reality in business, how they are approached reveals the true essence of a company’s culture.
Terminating employees involves balancing professionalism with empathy. Here are some ways to do that:
Prepare
Know what you want to say, how you want to express it, and how to guide the conversation to keep it focused. Be ready for any kind of reaction from an employee. Remember that this is an incredibly stressful moment, and people can often act in unexpected ways.
Be Clear and Concise
No one enjoys bad news; it is best to keep the meeting short. This allows for a direct and calm conversation.
Show Empathy
While the meeting should be straightforward, it is important that it does not come across as cold or confrontational. Demonstrating respect and compassion is essential, as the individual deserves dignity and will likely appreciate how the termination was managed in hindsight. A lack of empathy could lead to negative sentiments, and the employee may express their frustration more vocally regarding their termination.
Discuss Logistics
Have any required paperwork ready at the time of termination. It is recommended to have their final check ready even if it isn’t a state requirement. This allows for a clean departure for both the employer and employee. A termination letter is not recommended. For states that require a notice, general information is recommended.
Talk to the Team
You’ll need to determine who needs to be made aware of the employee’s departure. This will likely depend on a company’s structure and culture. Generally, it is important to inform at least the immediate team to ensure continuity of work. Only limited information should be shared to maintain confidentiality and show respect for the individual. It is also appropriate to express gratitude for the former employee’s contributions and wish them well in their future endeavors. Additionally, you will want to direct any questions related to ongoing projects to the appropriate contacts.
By approaching terminations with preparation, clarity, and empathy, you can cultivate a culture of respect and professionalism. To help you learn more, Employers Council offers a training course titled Terminating Employees with Compassion that is available to members (at a reduced rate) and nonmembers. Members also have access to our whitepaper on the subject and can receive guidance from our HR professionals and attorneys. Click here to learn how to become an Employers Council member.