Terminating Employees Safely

The risks of a former employee filing a discrimination charge increase significantly after they are terminated involuntarily.

It is hard to find information on how many discrimination charges are as a result of terminating employees (as opposed to hiring, discipline, or other reasons), but in my 43 years of dealing with Human Resources issues, I would say the percentage is more than 95%.

Therefore, termination must be handled well. There are a number of steps that should be followed when having a termination discussion with an employee. Following the steps in this webinar will greatly minimize your risks of being charged with discrimination when you have to terminate an employee.

Attend the webinar to learn how to document poor performance, conduct disciplinary discussions, and terminate employees in a way that will minimize the risks of the employee going to a governmental agency to get back at the employer. 

Employee termination is one of the most sensitive and challenging aspects of human resource management. How an organization handles terminations can significantly impact its legal standing, workplace morale, and reputation. 

• Ensuring that the termination is not a "surprise"
• The best day and time to conduct a termination
• Allowing the employee to walk out with their head up
• Behaviors to avoid when terminating an employee
• How to communicate the change to co-workers?
• Planning for the termination discussion

• The importance of work standards and standards of behavior
• Steps to take when considering terminating an employee
• Things to avoid when telling an employee, they are no longer employed
• Planning the termination discussion
• Things to have prepared for the terminated employee
• Writing a script for the discussion
• Communications with co-workers after the termination
• The importance of documentation

Safely terminating employees is a multifaceted process that demands meticulous planning, legal expertise, and emotional intelligence. By following best practices and prioritizing fairness and respect, organizations can handle terminations in a manner that reduces risks, preserves their reputation, and sustains a positive work environment. In the end, a well-managed termination process not only protects the organization but also ensures that everyone involved is treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.