When terminating an employee, numerous concerns must be addressed. True Security Inc. in Aurora is ready to assist with pre-planning consultation and security arrangements to prevent or respond to potential workplace violence. If your company policy allows, a suspension may be a first option preceding termination, which gives the employee time to adjust to the separation -- especially if an unfinished investigation is pending and exact evidence may affect the final decision.
Key Considerations for Employee Termination
Employee Background
The employee's criminal and behavioral background may be vital to the planning of the termination and should not be overlooked or assumed. A thorough review helps determine the appropriate level of security response.
Possible Violence
While we hope violence will not occur, being prepared helps prevent and minimize injuries. A detailed plan should include assessing the possible behavior of the employee to be ready for the unexpected.
Potential Property Damage
Arrangements may be needed to safeguard against property loss, whether from theft or vandalism, and to protect confidential information. This includes consideration of other business locations in Aurora and the surrounding area.
Private Security Guard
When selecting this option, the security guard's training and experience is vital for de-escalating the terminated employee from violent acts or providing an appropriate response for others' safety. For this duty, True Security guards in Aurora are carefully selected and required to have specific experience and training. The client has the option to review the guard's prerequisites for this duty. The guard may be uniformed or plain clothes, unarmed or armed, depending on the assessment of the situation.
Uniformed Law Enforcement Officer
Sometimes a uniformed law enforcement presence may be added alongside private security, especially if the employee has an arrest warrant, is mentally unstable, is expected to become violent, or is known to be armed.
Termination Date, Time, and Place
The date, time, and location of the termination meeting need careful consideration, along with all details concerning staff and public safety in the event any violence occurs or force is needed to escort the employee off the premises.
After Termination
Based on the employee assessment, plans should include provisions for possible employee retaliation, violence, or other criminal actions, whether expected or as a precaution.
Employee Termination Planning Guide
The decision should be made whether the responsibility to terminate an employee falls to the employee's manager, HR manager, or another designated manager. For the termination meeting, each situation may be evaluated differently based on the conditions and what is known about the employee's behavior. Here are key steps to follow:
- Choose attendees carefully -- Decide who will be present during the meeting based on the employee's potential behavior and the level of security needed.
- State the reason early -- At the beginning of the meeting, state the reason for the termination clearly so as not to mislead the employee. Avoid attempting to justify or defend the decision. Explain only what you know for sure and make certain the person has heard the termination news clearly.
- Provide specific information -- Be ready with details about pay, benefits, unused vacation time, references, outplacement services, and any other relevant matters.
- Close on a positive note -- Thank the person for their contributions to the company. While it may seem unusual to thank someone being terminated, almost everyone makes some contributions. Ending on positive comments may prevent future problems.
- Prepare answers in advance -- Be fully prepared to deal with all questions that arise at the time the termination is announced.
Common Employee Questions to Prepare For
- Is today my last day? When should I leave?
- Will I receive severance pay? How much?
- Will I receive the bonuses I was eligible for?
- When will I receive my last paycheck?
- Will I be paid for accumulated sick leave or vacation time not taken?
- Am I eligible for unemployment insurance?
- Will you provide employment references? What will you say?
- What will my coworkers and clients be told about my termination?
- When must I return company property such as a car, cell phone, and keys?
- What happens to my pension, profit sharing, or savings plans?
- When can I go back to my work area to collect my personal things?
- Can I say goodbye to everyone before I go?
Scheduling Best Practices
If possible, schedule the termination early in the week so the employee does not have the weekend to dwell on it. Employee termination is undoubtedly one of the most difficult requirements of being a manager, yet it is necessary for the success of the company and the people the company serves.
True Security Inc. in Aurora is available to assist with consultation or on-site security needs for employee termination or other workplace violence concerns. Call (303) 997-8060 for immediate assistance.