Reasons for Termination
Beware of Potential Violence

With all the reasons for termination the one thing that always concerned me and I planned for was the potential for violence!

Never forget that for most people their employment is very important to them - and taking it away can cause some to react in strange ways.

You should always be concerned that there is the potential for violence in any form - such as hitting - throwing - or worst case scenario - shooting.

This is especially important if you are calling them back from a suspension. If possible - I would strongly recommend sending the notice via some type of mail that will require a signature. You will need to check with your legal department before doing so.

I have had the misfortune of terminating an employee countless times over the years. (see sample termination letter) With very few exceptions - I felt strongly about the termination. They had earned them. I would always insure our employee handbook had a specific termination clause covering the offense. Wrongful termination must always be a concern.

I remember one termination where the employee was a big manly man - and upon issuing the letter of termination - they began crying.

They pleaded with me to change my mind. This was never a consideration.

On a different letter of termination - (see sample termination letter)

- to an employee that was being let go after a very serious sexual harassment investigation - I thought for sure was going to hit me.

This made me look at the set up of the office in a whole new way - making sure it was a safe environment on every one following this.

We had come into my office - which was within the reception area - so there was only one way into my office - and then only one way out of the reception area.

To make matters worse - my desk was on the other side of the room from the door - and the visitor seating was nearest the door - not a bright set up I know.

So - here is what happened - the employee came into my office and sat down across from my desk - and I of course sat at my desk.

When I issued the letter of termination to them - they were very surprised - to the point where they just sat in the chair with a cold stare at me.

I finished very quickly and I stood up and informed him that he could leave - but he did not. Instead he stood up - clinched his fists and continued to stare at me.

Now I will tell you I began to get nervous - I don’t know if it was the Marine in me - or just stupid - but I walked over to him - so close that we were almost touching - looked at him with as much intensity as possible - and told him it was time for him to leave.

I was very fortunate this time - since he did choose to leave - but I must admit I felt as though I had a very close call.

Looking back - I would never have set up the office that way again - and under the conditions I was faced with at the time I would strongly recommend having called someone for help.

Whenever terminating an employee - always consider everything from possible wrongful termination - to the termination clause in your employee handbook - and the wording on your letter of termination. (See Sample Termination Letter)

Thank you!

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