E. Human Resource Management

Skill 5. Dismiss/Layoff Employees

5.1 dismiss employees

a) be aware of potential allegation of wrongful dismissal:

• seek legal advice, if required

b) advise employee of dismissal in private:

• have witness present
• provide:
  • copies of documentation, if requested, for example:
    • written warnings
    • company policy
    • performance appraisals
  • record of employment as required by law
  • details of compensation and benefits, if applicable, e.g. holiday pay, group insurance

c) process dismissal immediately

d) take security measures, for example:

• ensure employee pays outstanding accounts
• collect company property, for example:
  • picture identification
  • keys and passes
  • credit cards
  • purchase orders
  • equipment, e.g. computer, tools
• escort employee from premises
• change access and security codes, if necessary

e) finalize payroll

f) follow up, for example:

• provide separation documents
• notify others who may be affected, e.g. clients, employees, suppliers
• complete personnel file
• forward personal property

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5.2 lay off employees

a) be aware of legislation governing group lay-offs

b) advise employee of lay-off in private:

• have witness present
• state:
  • reason for lay-off
  • effective date

c) offer assistance, e.g. provide letter of reference, counselling

d) conduct exit interview:

• ask for feedback about:
  • business
  • position
• discuss possibility of rehiring

e) ensure employee:

• returns company property
• pays outstanding accounts

f) follow up, for example:

• provide separation documents
• notify others who may be affected, e.g. clients, employees, suppliers
• complete personnel file:
  • keep for future reference

g) finalize payroll

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5.3 process resignations

a) accept written resignation

b) conduct exit interview:

• determine reason for resignation
• acknowledge contribution
• obtain feedback regarding business and position

c) follow up, for example:

• ensure employee:
  • returns company property
  • pays outstanding accounts
• provide separation documents
• complete personnel file:
  • keep for future reference
• notify others who may be affected, e.g. suppliers, employees

d) finalize payroll