What do you say to an employee during termination?

Asked by: Maynard Metz MD  |  Last update: December 2, 2025
Score: 4.4/5 (68 votes)

During the termination meeting, deliver the news directly and humanely. Use clear, unambiguous language so there's no confusion about the decision. Explain the reasons objectively, referring to policy violations or performance gaps. Listen to the employee's response, but avoid getting drawn into a debate.

What to say to an employee when terminating?

Be clear. Tell the employee that you're firing them and why, without using a lot of extra words or small talk. Make it clear that the working relationship is over, explain next steps, and provide the necessary paperwork.

How to start the conversation when terminating an employee?

8 Top Tips for Dismissing an Employee with Care
  1. Brief greeting.
  2. Give notice.
  3. State and explain reasons.
  4. Wait for the employee's reaction and respond in kind.
  5. Clarify next steps.
  6. Arrange follow-up discussion.

What not to say during a termination?

11 Things You Should Never Say When Firing an Employee
  • “This is really hard for me.” ...
  • “I'm not sure how to say this.” ...
  • “We've decided to let you go.” ...
  • “We've decided to go in a different direction.” ...
  • “We'll work out the details later.” ...
  • “Compared to Susan, your performance is subpar.”

How to respond to a terminated employee?

To close the conversation, ask the terminated employee, “Do you have any questions about your final paycheck or benefits?” Avoid asking the more general, “Do you have any questions?” This provides employees with an opportunity to: Challenge you. Argue about the (real or perceived) reasons for the termination.

What are the do’s and don’ts during a termination conversation?

22 related questions found

What is a nice way to say terminated?

Synonym Chooser

Some common synonyms of terminate are close, complete, conclude, end, and finish.

How do you handle an employee termination?

The termination procedure for just causes includes identifying the reason, providing notice to the employee, holding a hearing, and issuing an official decision to the employee.

How to fire an employee gracefully?

It's also important that you present the information you have to the employee. Be clear and unwavering, and explain why you decided to terminate them. Also, make sure you actually say the words “We're terminating you” or “We're letting you go.” Don't use ambiguous language.

How do you respond to a termination letter?

You need to respond to the termination letter in writing. Be professional in your response and focus on resolving any issues. If there are any disputes, try to resolve them in a constructive way. If you're unclear about anything mentioned in the letter, seek clarification before responding.

Should HR be present during termination?

Yes. HR should undoubtedly be present in every termination meeting. Their role as professionals in the matter is vital, especially if there is any contention over the dismissal.

What is a good script for terminating an employee?

"Hi [Name], thanks for meeting with me today. I have some difficult news to share. I asked you here because we need to discuss your employment with [Company]. This isn't easy to say, but we've made the decision to terminate your position effective [Date]."

What is the best day to terminate an employee?

Monday is better than Friday but may leave the employee asking why they bothered getting dressed and coming into the office in the first place. A mid-week termination is best and provides employees with enough time to get the answers they need or begin their job search.

How do you write a termination message?

Dear [Employee Name], We regretfully inform you that your employment with [Company Name] will be terminated effective [Termination Date]. After careful analysis of your work and attitude, we have determined that terminating your job is in the company's best interests.

How do I communicate a termination to the staff?

Be direct when stating that the employee is being terminated, as you don't want there to be any confusion on this front. Provide some explanation for your decision: Briefly mention a policy or expectation the employee has broken or notify them that they are being laid off.

How do you professionally explain termination?

Keep it short but positive. If you were terminated for job performance issues, state the reason and what steps you've made to improve yourself since. Example: If you were terminated for failing to meet a monthly sales quota, you can explain the situation like this: "Let go for failing to meet selling standards.

What is a best practice when terminating an employee?

Conducting the Termination Meeting

As you conduct the meeting, follow these best practices: Be truthful. Don't sugarcoat the process. Instead, share with the employee that they are being terminated and review your documentation with them to help them understand the reasons that led to the decision.

What do you say during termination?

Consider including the following in your termination meeting:
  • Give an adequate reason for the discharge. ...
  • Seek out the employee's explanation or interpretation of events. ...
  • Make it clear that the decision is final. ...
  • Briefly run through the benefits. ...
  • Explain your job reference policy. ...
  • Collect what's yours from the employee.

How do I write a soft termination letter?

Best Practices for Writing Employee Termination Letters and Emails
  1. Maintain a Professional and Compassionate Tone. ...
  2. Be Clear and Concise. ...
  3. Explain the Reason for Termination. ...
  4. Outline the Next Steps and Final Arrangements. ...
  5. Mention Any Severance and Benefits Information. ...
  6. Reiterate Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure Agreements.

How do you respond to a terminated employee email?

Thank you for your email. Please note that [Employee's first name] no longer works at [company name]. Your message has not been forwarded. For assistance with [briefly explain the former employee's responsibility], please contact our team at [alternative email address or phone number].

How do you terminate an employee with dignity?

This needs to be done calmly and with empathy, without gloating. While the employee should have a clear understanding of why he or she was terminated, this is not the time for blame, guilt trips, throwing in the kitchen sink, or to overly dwell on the reasons for termination.

What is not a good fit termination?

"Not a good fit" termination refers to ending an employment relationship due to an employee's inability to effectively perform their job or align with the company's values and culture (amongst other things).

How to be fired gracefully?

Here are tips for getting fired like a pro:
  1. Don't take it personally. This is hard to do because being fired is personal. ...
  2. Don't argue. ...
  3. Don't beg. ...
  4. Ask for specifics and get them in writing. ...
  5. Check with your attorney before signing anything. ...
  6. Ask for help. ...
  7. Express gratitude.

How do you respond to a fired employee?

What should you include in a message to someone who got fired?
  1. Communicate that you are available to listen. ...
  2. Provide emotional support. ...
  3. Remind them that there are other possibilities. ...
  4. Avoid pressuring them to figure out their next step. ...
  5. Offer your assistance. ...
  6. Continue to be there for them.

What is the difference between being terminated and being fired?

Laid-off workers are terminated through no fault of their own, and fired employees are terminated due to their actions. As a result, the compensation they receive can be impacted. Laid-off employees can be entitled to severance pay or benefits such as a salary or insurance for a brief duration after being let go.

What is always required when an employer terminates an employee?

Under California law, employers must provide notice to employees before termination. For employees who have been employed for less than one year, the notice period is at least 90 days. For employees who have been employed for more than one year, the notice period is at least 60 days.