{"id":8730,"date":"2020-09-30T10:01:27","date_gmt":"2020-09-30T14:01:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gtm.com\/business\/?p=8730"},"modified":"2024-08-30T11:09:14","modified_gmt":"2024-08-30T15:09:14","slug":"how-to-conduct-a-remote-termination","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gtm.com\/business\/how-to-conduct-a-remote-termination\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Conduct a Remote Termination"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"conduct<\/p>\n

Terminations aren\u2019t easy, and the current pandemic is causing new challenges for the process. Conducting terminations in-person may be the standard procedure for many organizations, but with more employees working remotely than ever before, an in-person termination isn\u2019t always feasible \u2014 or might be logistically impractical. When conducting remote terminations, having an effective process in place can ease this difficult task and reduce the risk for an employer. This article offers considerations for how to conduct a remote termination.<\/p>\n

Employers should ensure that those involved with terminations are aware of all applicable laws. The considerations outlined in this article are not legal advice. Laws and guidelines related to terminations may vary by locality. Employers should consult with local legal counsel for any termination-related issues.<\/p>\n

Remote Terminations<\/h2>\n

In some cases, an organization\u2019s remote employees might live near a local office. In others, employees may be geographically distant \u2014 which can create cost, time, and logistical challenges for both the employees and the designated managers or HR professionals conducting terminations.<\/p>\n

Due to the transformation of the workplace, employers who support remote employees should become comfortable completing a termination remotely. This likely won\u2019t be a one-time event, so by creating an effective process, employers can mitigate risk and ease the process for all involved. Having a clear termination process in place can help ensure that you part with employees on the best terms possible and insulate your organization from legal trouble.<\/p>\n

Virtual Platforms<\/h2>\n

Employers should consider what their appropriate platform is for a remote termination, such as a teleconference or video call. Video platforms such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom have become common in many workplaces<\/a>. They can provide transparency as to who is present for a meeting and allow for nonverbal communication from participants.<\/p>\n

While these benefits have led to organizations utilizing video platforms for anything from interviews<\/a> to hosting internal meetings, the same can be said of conducting terminations. Regardless of the platform your organization ultimately uses for termination, this event isn\u2019t the time or place to experiment or learn how to use new technologies\u2014so ensure that you take time to prepare accordingly.<\/p>\n

Remote Termination Considerations<\/h2>\n

When creating a process for remote terminations, employers should consider what actions to take in preparation for the termination, during the meeting, and after letting the employee go.<\/p>\n

Preparing for a Remote Termination<\/h3>\n

When preparing for a remote termination, steps to consider include:<\/p>\n

Setting up a meeting<\/h3>\n

Ensure varying time zones are accounted for, as participants may be joining from various locations. Include the employee who will be terminated, HR and the employee\u2019s manager\u2014as including all necessary participants can eliminate the need for multiple conversations and ensure that the affected employee\u2019s questions and concerns are addressed.<\/p>\n

Reviewing your internal practices<\/h3>\n

Review your company\u2019s policies to ensure strict compliance. Ensure that your organization\u2019s termination practices and guidelines are followed.<\/p>\n

Proactively involving IT<\/h3>\n

Before conducting remote terminations, communicate with IT about removing the terminated employee\u2019s access to internal networks at the appropriate time as well as other necessary IT actions. As you won\u2019t be able to collect equipment immediately, it will be necessary to conduct IT tasks remotely.<\/p>\n

Proper preparation and advance actions can help ensure that remote terminations go as planned.<\/p>\n

Conducting the Remote Termination<\/h3>\n

When conducting a remote termination, steps to consider include:<\/p>\n

Announcing all participants<\/h3>\n

Ensure that the employee being terminated is aware of all participants present for the meeting.<\/p>\n

Addressing benefits, severance, and vacation pay<\/h3>\n

Be sure to let employees know what will happen to their benefits, including but not limited to:<\/p>\n