Termination Tips

Welcome to the SurePayroll minute.

I’m Michael Alter.

No one likes to terminate employees, but sometimes it has to be done.

Before you begin the termination process, you should have key documentation that will help you justify your decision.

Not only will it help when talking to the employee, but it can also reduce the risk of a future wrongful termination lawsuit.

Consider two key pieces of documentation... your employee hand book and any warnings the employee has been given.

Your employee handbook should state all possible reasons employees can be terminated, advising that certain behaviors will result in immediate dismissal.

Every employee should sign a document stating that they have read and understand the policies in the handbook on their first day with the company.

Be sure to keep a signed copy of this document in the employee’s file.

If an employee breaks attendance rules, doesn’t meet expectations, or displays unacceptable behavior, a written warning should be issued.

The warning should state the offense and the expectation for change, as well as inform employees that a reoccurrence could result in termination.

The employee should sign a printed copy of the warning, and you should keep it in the employee’s file.

If the time comes, you’ll have the information you need to make the termination go as smoothly as possible.

For the simple answer to small business issues, I’m Michael Alter with your SurePayroll Minute.