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Terminating an Employee

terminating an employee picIf you are faced with the need to terminate an employee , it can be a difficult and emotional task. It is important that you take measures to handle the termination properly to protect yourself and your company. Below are a few suggestions for how to fire an employee with as little drama as possible:

  • Schedule the employee termination meeting at the beginning or end of the day. The fewer co-workers around the better. The meeting should be held in private where others cannot see or hear the employee during the firing process. You should avoid holding the meeting in a public place in case the employee has an outburst.
  • Provide your IT personnel with advance notice that the employee will be terminated. The employee’s access to all company email, networks and other data should be disconnected upon termination of the employee. Waiting to take this measure could result in a serious data breach or other negative consequences.
  • Keep the conversation as short and professional as possible. If you have conducted an investigation or you have documented specific instances where the employee failed to meet company standards, you may wish to explain your decision. However, you should avoid going into extensive detail and do not get into an argument with the employee.
  • Require the employee to turnover any company property, including keys, swipe cards, laptops or cell phones.
  • If appropriate, provide the terminated employee with any paperwork he or she will need to continue their benefits.
  • Give the employee time to gather personal belongings, but have a manager, HR professional or other form of supervisor remain with the employee during this time. Do not allow the employee to access the computer or try to clean-up the desk.

Letting an employee go is never easy, but sometimes it is the best choice for your small business. The longer you retain an underperforming employee, the more likely you are to regret that decision.

The Swenson Law Firm is located in Sacramento County and we proudly serve businesses of all sizes from all over the State of California. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with matters such as trademarks, defending lawsuits, business formation, contract negotiations, hiring employees, and protecting your intellectual property. With our years of complex business trial and litigation experience, we are an effective, efficient and affordable choice in representing you at the bargaining table and in the courtroom.

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