Lifescripts, 3rd Edition

74Sending a Voluntary Termination Hint to a Direct Report

STRATEGY

“You can't fire me,” legions of sitcom stars have shouted, “I quit!” How often managers wish this cliché could be reality. There are those times that no matter what efforts everyone has made to the contrary, an employee just doesn't fit. Attitude, performance, attendance, and all else combine to make it clear that an individual just isn't going to make it. The goal of this script is to help you to bring about the voluntary termination of such a direct report by hinting at its desirability. By presenting evidence of work incompatibility in an understanding, non‐threatening manner, soliciting the individual's reflection upon that evidence, and indicating the advantages of voluntary termination, hints may become a reality.

TACTICS

• Attitude: Expect to feel a bit awkward. As difficult as terminating an employee is, it's still straightforward and businesslike. Hinting to a subordinate that they leave is often uncomfortable because it's so indirect and usually involves a “nice person, poor worker” scenario. Knowing your actions are driven by doing what's best for all should help.
• Preparation: Have specific actions and activities that indicate the poor working relationship. Be personally clear on what the advantages of resigning are so you can present them. Finally, carefully prepare and practice the script.

  

• Timing: ...