Managing People - Firing Employees
Hypothetical Firing Dialogue

Hypothetical Firing Dialogue

Manager Tom, please have a seat.

Tom Thank you.

Manager Tom, I know that you have tried hard to succeed at your job. Nonetheless, for some months now, your overall performance has not been satisfactory. There are too many instances of errors in the accounts payable reports and your attempts to carefully check over each report have slowed down the pace of your work considerably. We cannot retain you in this position and we must let you go.

Tom You mean, I’m fired?

Manager Yes, that is correct. I am very sorry that this did not work out.

Tom I know I can do the job. Give me another chance. I really like working here.

Manager Tom, we have given you at least two written warnings and several verbal warnings.

Tom But my supervisor says the quality of my work is improving.

Manager While the number of errors has decreased, the quality is still not satisfactory. And in working to decrease the amount of errors your work pace has become unsatisfactory. I know you have tried . . . but it’s still not working out.

Tom What about another position? I’ve never really liked payables. How about the entry-level position in accounts receivable? I’ll really give it my all.

Manager Tom, it’s time to move on. We all like you here. This is a difficult decision for all of us. But the decision has been made. We truly wish you the best.