Firing a Long-Time Employee is a Challenge, but You Might Have to Do It
It is not easy letting go of someone who has been with you for a long time. It is like having a divorce with someone you have been married with for years. However, as the business progresses, there might be employees whom you have to let go. It does not matter if the person has been with you for a year or ten years. If it is time to leave, you need to make that decision. Of course, firing is not necessarily the first option. You still need to go through a process before deciding to fire.
You have already tried everything
Your company changes over time. For instance, you might try to digitize all the transactions. It is a challenge for older employees since they might resist change involving the use of technology. Of course, you need to train your employees and make them aware of the changes. If the long-time employee still refuses to do the job and prefers to follow the old ways that no longer suit your business, it might be time to go.
You can also move that employee to a different department where you think the skills can still be applicable. Check if that person matches the new job description. You can continue your relationship if that worked out. Otherwise, you can be honest in saying that there is no more place left in your company.
Have an honest conversation
Breaking up is never easy and it requires lengthy and honest conversation. You can talk about the employee about how you feel and why you are making this decision. Of course, it will be met with fury. You need to stay calm and focused. Do not try to sugarcoat the conversation and pretend that everything is going well. You are having this discussion because you made a significant decision. You would rather rip the Band-Aid off earlier in the process.
On the other hand, if this employee has done something terrible to your company and it was only recently that you noticed it, you need to say what you have found out. Do not hold back since something terrible happened. You should be honest about how frustrated you were especially if you have someone you trust.
Determine whats best
You might be conflicted now especially if this person is someone you care for. However, you also need to care for your company and its future. If you have someone who does not match your vision and will only be a burden moving forward, it is time to let go. It might be painful and it could probably destroy your relationship forever, but you have to do it.
You only need people in your team who are willing to undergo changes to improve themselves and will align with the plans for the future of the company.
Photo Attribution:
Featured and 1st image from https://unsplash.com/photos/8SUJkSLW8AI
2nd image from https://www.themuse.com/advice/3-facts-youll-have-to-face-the-first-time-you-fire-someone
