You're Fired: The Termination Interview

This interview is a transaction so intense, intricate and so loaded with pitfalls that it merits individual attention.

Basically, you are informing an employee that their income is stopping. There are few notifications more serious than this.

There are three categories of involuntary termination of employment:
1. Termination for cause: unacceptable behavior
2. Termination for cause: unsatisfactory work performance
3. Job elimination or reduction in workforce (RIF) - both called "lay offs"

Here are some universal rules for termination interviews:

                                                      Be Prepared
-Make an outline of subjects to be covered and even a script outline for situations with legal ramifications
-Have all related documents and final paycheck ready for delivery
-Decide if another member of Management should be present -OR- if you need professional HR support
-Plan for the employee's physical exit from the work facility and the delivery of their personal property
-Select a location that is private
-Anticipate security issues
-Write a summary of the transaction when it is completed, especially recording what was said and what documents you delivered

We'll look into these in depth but the action of PREPARATION gives you power and confidence.

Lance