What do you do if you must release someone…?

Here are 9 tips (some of them— like #2— which may seem counter-intuitive).

#1 = Don’t procrastinate

To recognize something is wrong and don’t do something about it is wrong.

#2 = Approach the privately

If you go to them one-on-one, they’ll be far less defensive.

#3 = Affirm them

They haven’t done everything wrong. They’ve likely contributed to your team in a positive way.

#4 = Be honest

Don’t spin reality and say, “things are tight right now.” Don’t blame it on Covid or the economy.

Just tell them clearly.

#5 = Acknowledge our pain to them

If this is easy, then we’re probably not healthy. This is going to be a life-changing event for them. It should not be easy.

#6 = Be generous

Be kind in your praise and even offer them a severance if you can afford it.

#7 = Define the “high road” and “low road” scenario

Assume the best— that they will honor your organization on the way out. But also outline what the worst-case scenario looks like.

#8 = Put everything in writing

This doesn’t necessarily require legal documentation— just communication.

#9 = Develop a communication plan

Decide who tells everyone else…