How to (Politely) Tell Someone They’re Fired

How to (Politely) Tell Someone They’re Fired

If only we were all as rich as Donald Trump, and as good at marketing ourselves that we can indulge ourselves into buying things or fantasizing about the new Mrs. Trump that was born somewhere else this very second to clear up our conscience after shouting, “You’re fired!!” in the most heartless, cruel, brutal way imaginable.

Unfortunately, most of us have consciences that we cannot afford to sooth by money, ego, and self-marketing power alone. Further, we do not have the type of power or authority that Donald Trump has, where we can get away with everything.

There is no good, happy way to tell someone he or she is going to be fired, whether it is for poor performance or due to a need to cut costs. If you must tell someone they are fired, be sensitive about it. Do not write a letter telling them; tell them to their face. Even if you are nervous about it, stay calm.

When telling someone they are fired, be firm about it, and keep certain things on record, such as failure to perform on their job. Keep in mind; even if they had a poor job performance, they were probably trying very hard unlike the famous Donald Trump reality show. Keep the meeting brief, and to the point.

Remember, even if you are frustrated with the employee, the reputation of your company is on the line. You might even need to hire back the employee one day. Do be polite, and try to treat the person the way you would want to be treated.



http://www.bsideblog.com/2009/04/lets-talk-apprentice-for-a-mom.php
http://blog.syracuse.com/shoptalk/2008/07/fired.html
http://www.bizjournals.com/washington/stories/2004/10/04/smallb1.html