Be sure to apply proper deductions for taxes, benefits, garnishments and so on. He signs a release of claims so you don't worry about a future litigation. This means the employer can fire or lay off the worker whenever they want. First, if the gossip is about an individual employee, it can cause much pain not only for that person, but also for their coworkers. A worker warning form is an excellent resource that every small company owner and Hr manager should consider using. Listen carefully so you fully understand the circumstances from her view. Except for the signature, the bad worker rarely fills out the bottom part. At this point, your worker warnings become the papers your small business needs to dismiss this individual. First, corporate outplacement helps plan the worker dismissal and provides services for the employee afterwards. In Melanie's circumstance, she had enough of the lackluster performance, but like many small business owners she had no experience terminating employees. If your budget allows it, you may consider engaging a public relations firm to aid you prepare. Finally, you don't have to be 100% correct for your documentation to hold up in court.

To ensure consistency and fairness, it should equally apply to all personnel. In Tool #5 of the worker Termination Toolkit (at the end of this book), I give you some sample questions for a "resignation" exit interview. Finally, using a similar format keeps the method of layoff consistent and fair for all individuals involved.