Why do employees get dismissed?

Asked by: Seamus Walsh  |  Last update: June 6, 2026
Score: 4.5/5 (59 votes)

Employees get dismissed for various reasons, broadly categorized as performance issues (poor work, incompetence), misconduct (theft, harassment, policy violations, insubordination), attendance problems (tardiness, absences), or business needs (redundancy, downsizing), with employers needing documented, lawful justification for "for cause" terminations, especially in at-will employment situations, to avoid legal issues.

What are the just causes for dismissal of an employee?

4. The just causes

  • 1) Serious misconduct;
  • 2) Willful disobedience of a lawful order;
  • 3) Gross and habitual neglect of duty;
  • 4) Fraud;
  • 5) Willful breach of trust;
  • 6) Commission of a crime against the person of the employer or any immediate member of his family or his duly authorized representatives; and.
  • Analogous causes.

Why would a company dismiss an employee?

Incompetence, including lack of productivity or poor quality of work. Insubordination and related issues such as dishonesty or breaking company rules. Attendance issues, such as frequent absences or chronic tardiness. Theft or other criminal behavior including revealing trade secrets.

What are the five fair reasons for dismissal?

The five legally fair reasons for dismissal are Conduct (misconduct like theft, abuse), Capability (poor performance or ill health), Redundancy (the job is no longer needed), Statutory Illegality (continuing employment breaks the law, e.g., losing a license), and Some Other Substantial Reason (SOSR) (a catch-all for significant issues like breakdown of trust or business needs). A fair dismissal requires a fair reason and a fair process, with thorough investigation and following legal procedures. 

Is dismissal the same as termination?

Termination is the permanent end of an employment relationship. There are many terms that are used to refer to termination, including: quit, resigned, retired, fired, let go and dismissed. Lay-offs are a temporary pause in work.

Being dismissed from work: your rights explained

20 related questions found

What are 5 reasons for termination?

Five common reasons for employee termination include poor job performance, misconduct (like theft, harassment, or violence), insubordination, attendance issues (tardiness/absences), and violating company policy, all of which can significantly impact business operations and safety. These reasons often fall under "for cause" terminations, requiring documentation of specific behaviors that impede work, though redundancy (role elimination) is another valid, non-performance-related reason. 

What are my rights after dismissal?

If you've lost your job, you have certain rights, such as the right to continue your health care coverage and, in some cases, the right to unemployment compensation.

On what grounds can an employee be dismissed?

Fair reasons for dismissal

(2) This Act recognises three grounds on which a termination of employment might be legitimate. These are: the conduct of the employee, the capacity of the employee, and the operational requirements of the employer's business.

Do good employees get fired?

Below are some common reasons why good employees might face termination: A New Supervisor Sees Them as a Threat: When new supervisors take over, they may perceive established employees as competition or a threat to their authority, particularly if those employees have a solid track record.

What is the biggest red flag at work?

The biggest red flags at work often center on poor leadership, toxic culture, and lack of transparency, manifesting as micromanagement, high turnover, vague expectations, unfair treatment, or a breakdown in communication, all signaling deeper issues with management or company health that can lead to burnout and resentment.
 

What are the 5 just causes in terminating an employee?

Five common reasons for employee termination include poor job performance, misconduct (like theft, harassment, or violence), insubordination, attendance issues (tardiness/absences), and violating company policy, all of which can significantly impact business operations and safety. These reasons often fall under "for cause" terminations, requiring documentation of specific behaviors that impede work, though redundancy (role elimination) is another valid, non-performance-related reason. 

What are 5 fair reasons for dismissal?

The five legally fair reasons for dismissal are Conduct (misconduct like theft, abuse), Capability (poor performance or ill health), Redundancy (the job is no longer needed), Statutory Illegality (continuing employment breaks the law, e.g., losing a license), and Some Other Substantial Reason (SOSR) (a catch-all for significant issues like breakdown of trust or business needs). A fair dismissal requires a fair reason and a fair process, with thorough investigation and following legal procedures. 

What not to say in termination?

When firing someone, avoid saying "sorry," comparing them to others, making vague statements like "going in a different direction," or dragging out the conversation with personal details, as these soften the blow but create confusion, legal risk, and a poor experience; instead, be direct, brief, and focus on business reasons, using "we" sparingly and keeping it professional.
 

What are my rights if I get fired?

If fired, you're generally entitled to your final paycheck (including accrued vacation) and can apply for unemployment benefits, but severance pay and COBRA health coverage depend on company policy or agreements, and eligibility for unemployment hinges on being fired "through no fault of your own". You may also have rights to access your personnel file, especially if you suspect wrongful termination (discrimination, illegal reasons). 

What are the three types of dismissals?

3 Forms of Dismissal in SA Labour Law

  • Dismissal due to Misconduct.
  • Dismissal due to Incapacity.
  • Dismissal due to Operational Requirements.

What happens if you get dismissed?

When you get sacked (fired), you're typically called into a meeting with HR/your manager, informed of the termination (often escorted out), and must return company property; you'll receive your final pay (including owed vacation/PTO), but may or may not get severance, depending on the reason for dismissal, with a key next step being to understand your rights and apply for unemployment benefits.
 

Do terminations go on your record?

Yes, a job termination goes in your internal HR file, but it usually doesn't appear on standard background checks, which focus on criminal/credit history; however, future employers can find out through reference checks or by asking you directly, so preparing a concise, honest explanation is key, as most companies only confirm dates of employment to avoid legal issues. 

What are my rights if I am fired?

If fired, you're generally entitled to your final paycheck (including accrued vacation) and can apply for unemployment benefits, but severance pay and COBRA health coverage depend on company policy or agreements, and eligibility for unemployment hinges on being fired "through no fault of your own". You may also have rights to access your personnel file, especially if you suspect wrongful termination (discrimination, illegal reasons).