In my opinion, the original British version of The Office is far superior to its American counterpart, in large part because David Brent is so much more cringe-worthy than Michael Scott.
I thought I’d start the week off with a little humor (and a little lesson), care of David Brent, via one of the most awkward employee terminations ever.
This meeting violates one of the cardinal rules of terminating an employee:
Don’t debate the decision or supply a lengthy explanation.
In a reduction in force, the conversation is even more simple: “The company has eliminated your position, and is prepared to offer the following severance package.”
The more detail you provide, the more penned in you will be in later litigation. Your goal is to be honest with the employee, yet, in the event of litigation, provide your counsel with the most flexibility to support the termination.
And, for God’s sake, don’t debate the disabilities or other protected statuses of those who have not lost their jobs.