How to fire someone properly

Any salon owner that has ever employed someone knows the time, money and effort that goes into the process, so it’s safe to say that they want the appointment to work out too.

But, it doesn’t always work out that way, and sometimes, it’s better for the salon, and possibly everyone involved, if an employee’s contract is terminated.

But just a three’s a process for hiring someone, there’s also a process for firing someone. And it’s don’t something you want to get wrong.

Provide performance management
Being fired shouldn’t be the first inkling a staff member has that their employment is about to be terminated. “Bringing on a new staff member involves a period of settling and then equipping them with the knowledge of how to carry out their job,” says HR expert Lindy McDonald. “If they’re not meeting your expectations, they need to not only be made aware, but you owe it to them to help them to achieve their assigned goals. This may involve weekly meetings to discuss their progress and whether you’re satisfied with their performance. At every step, you need to have given them the guidance they need to succeed.”

Be transparent
“Telling someone they haven’t proven themselves isn’t an easy conversation to have, but you owe it to them to be honest,” says Lindy. “Otherwise, they’ll enter their next job without the understanding of what they need to improve on.” According to Lindy, too many salon owners are using the pandemic as an excuse to get rid of people. “It’s the expected situation, isn’t it? And it’s the easier conversation to have. But telling someone they’re being made redundant when they actually haven’t performed well enough to keep their job isn’t constructive for anyone.”

Be respectful
Even though the reasons you’re firing an employee may range from an innocent ability to perform the job, to something as sinister as stealing, you need to carry out the conversation in a respectful manner. “Choose somewhere private and out of earshot of any other staff,” says Lindy. “Doing it in the afternoon, just ahead of home time is best as it will allow the staff member to go straight home and not face any colleagues.”

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