How to Terminate an Employee With Professionalism and Empathy in 2025
Learn how to terminate an employee with professionalism and empathy. Ensure legal compliance, transparent communication, and post-termination support.
On this page
No manager looks forward to it—but at some point, most will face it: the need to let someone go. How to terminate an employee is one of the most sensitive, high-stakes challenges a leader can encounter. Done carelessly, it can damage morale, invite legal risk, and tarnish your company's culture. Done with care, transparency, and empathy, it can preserve dignity, protect your brand, and even provide closure for all involved.
This blog offers a practical, step-by-step guide on how to terminate an employee the right way—covering legal considerations, communication tips, and best practices to ensure the process is professional, respectful, and human-centered. Whether it's due to performance issues, policy violations, or structural changes, we'll help you handle terminations with both confidence and compassion.
Why should you terminate an employee?
There are various valid reasons for terminating an employee. These reasons typically stem from the employee's performance, behavior, or changes within the company.
Some common reasons include:
1. Poor performance
If an employee consistently fails to meet job expectations, despite adequate training and support, it might be necessary to terminate their employment. Poor performance can negatively impact team morale, productivity, and the overall success of the organization.
2. Violation of company policies
If an employee consistently disregards company policies, engages in unethical behavior, or violates workplace rules, it can disrupt the work environment and compromise the company's values and reputation.
3. Serious misconduct
Misconduct such as theft, harassment, fraud, or violence can create a hostile work environment and jeopardize the safety and well-being of other employees. In such cases, termination may be necessary to protect the organization and its employees.
4. Insubordination
If an employee consistently refuses to follow directions, challenges authority, or disrespects supervisors and colleagues, it can disrupt the chain of command and negatively impact teamwork and collaboration.
5. Attendance issues
Excessive absenteeism, tardiness, or frequent unexcused absences can disrupt work schedules and hinder productivity. If an employee's attendance issues persist despite counseling and corrective actions, termination might be considered.
6. Job elimination or restructuring
Changes in business needs, technological advancements, or strategic shifts may require a company to restructure or eliminate certain positions. In such cases, employees might be terminated due to their roles becoming redundant.
7. Performance improvement failure
If an employee has been given a reasonable amount of time and support to improve their performance but fails to meet the required standards, termination might be considered as a last resort.
8. Budgetary constraints
Economic factors or financial challenges might lead to the need to reduce labor costs, which can result in layoffs or terminations.
9. Employee health or safety
If an employee's physical or mental health poses a risk to themselves or others, and reasonable accommodations cannot be made, it might be necessary to terminate their employment to ensure safety.
10. Voluntary resignation
Sometimes, employees may choose to resign due to personal reasons, career advancement opportunities, or better offers from other companies. While this is not a termination initiated by the employer, it still leads to the employee's departure from the organization.
When considering termination, it's important to ensure that the reasons are valid, documented, and aligned with company policies and legal regulations. The decision to terminate an employee should be made after careful consideration and, ideally, should be a last resort after attempting to address the issue through counseling, performance improvement plans, or other appropriate measures.
How to terminate an employee in the right way
Here is how to terminate an employee in the right way
1. Preparation
Before initiating the termination process, it's important to ensure that you have valid reasons for the termination. This could include poor performance, violation of company policies, changes in business needs, or other legitimate grounds. Review the employee's performance records, attendance history, and any relevant documentation to ensure that your decision is well-founded.
2. Legal and policy compliance
Make sure you are familiar with the employment laws and regulations in your jurisdiction. Ensure that the termination process follows both the law and your company's policies and procedures. This will help you avoid any legal challenges or disputes later on. Avoid discriminatory practices and ensure that the decision is based on objective criteria.
3. Documentation
Throughout the employee's tenure, maintain thorough documentation of their performance reviews, feedback, warnings, and any incidents that have led to the decision to terminate. This documentation will serve as evidence if the employee challenges the termination or if legal issues arise.
4. Choose the right time and place
Select a time and place for the termination meeting that respects the employee's privacy and minimizes potential embarrassment. Schedule a private meeting in a quiet and confidential space. Avoid busy periods or times when the employee might have personal commitments or important meetings.
5. Be direct and transparent
In the termination meeting, begin by addressing the issue directly and transparently. Clearly communicate the reason for the termination. Avoid using vague language or euphemisms, as this can lead to confusion or misunderstanding. If possible, provide specific examples or instances that have led to the decision.
6. Use empathetic communication
While delivering the news, approach the situation with empathy and sensitivity. Recognize that termination is a difficult experience for the employee. Listen attentively to their reactions and questions. Maintain a composed and empathetic demeanor throughout the conversation.
7. Offer details and support
Provide the employee with essential details regarding the termination process. This includes information about severance packages, final paychecks, unused vacation days, and any other benefits they are entitled to. Offer assistance in collecting personal belongings from their workspace and transitioning their responsibilities to other team members.
8. Maintain confidentiality
Emphasize the importance of maintaining confidentiality regarding the details of the termination. This not only respects the employee's privacy but also helps to preserve the company's reputation.
9. Company property and access
During or immediately after the termination meeting, collect any company property from the employee. This could include keys, access cards, laptops, or any other equipment they may have used during their employment.
10. Finalize administrative tasks
Update internal systems and records to reflect the employee's termination status. Notify relevant departments, such as human resources, it, and payroll, about the termination so that they can take appropriate actions to facilitate a smooth transition.
11. Communicate with the team
Depending on the circumstances, consider how and when to communicate the departure to the rest of the team. Maintain the departing employee's privacy while ensuring that the team remains informed about any changes that might affect their workflow.
12. Provide next steps
Offer guidance on what steps the terminated employee can take next. Inform them about resources such as cobra benefits (if applicable), job search support, career counseling, and potential references from the company.
13. Follow up
Demonstrate ongoing support by scheduling a follow-up meeting within a week or so after the termination. This allows the employee to address any questions, concerns, or logistical matters that might arise as they transition away from the company.
Sample employee termination letter examples
Here are 3 Sample employee termination letter examples to terminate an employee in the right way.
1. Termination letter due to poor performance
This letter informs the employee of their termination based on ongoing performance issues, expressing appreciation for their contributions and providing details regarding final pay and benefits.
[Date]
[Employee's Name]
[Employee's Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Dear [Employee's Name],
I am writing to inform you that, after careful consideration and a thorough performance review, we have decided to terminate your employment with [Company Name], effective [last working day, typically two weeks from the date of the letter].
This decision is based on ongoing performance issues, which have been discussed with you during your employment. Despite our best efforts to support your improvement, we have not seen the required progress. We believe this is the best course of action for both you and the company.
You will receive your final paycheck on your last working day, including any accrued vacation days, and information regarding your employee benefits. Please return all company property and keys on your last day.
If you have any questions or need further assistance during this transition, please do not hesitate to reach out to our HR department.
We appreciate the contributions you made during your time with [Company Name], and we wish you success in your future endeavors.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Company Name]
2. Termination letter due to company restructuring
This letter notifies the employee of their termination due to company restructuring, emphasizing that the decision is not related to their performance and offering support in finding new employment opportunities
[Date]
[Employee's Name]
[Employee's Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Dear [Employee's Name],
I am writing to inform you that, due to a recent company restructuring, your position at [Company Name] will be terminated, effective [last working day, typically two weeks from the date of the letter].
This decision is a result of necessary changes in the organization's structure and not a reflection of your performance or dedication to the company. We deeply regret that we must take this step and acknowledge your hard work and contributions during your time here.
You will receive your final paycheck on your last working day, including any accrued vacation days, and information regarding your employee benefits. Please return all company property and keys on your last day.
If you have any questions or require assistance in finding new employment opportunities, our HR department is available to help.
We extend our gratitude for your service at [Company Name] and wish you all the best in your future endeavors.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Company Name]
3. Termination letter due to violation of company policy
This letter communicates the termination of an employee for a policy violation, specifying the policy breached and emphasizing the seriousness of the violation, while providing information on final pay and benefits.
[Date]
[Employee's Name]
[Employee's Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Dear [Employee's Name],
I am writing to inform you that, after a thorough investigation, we have decided to terminate your employment with [Company Name], effective [last working day, typically two weeks from the date of the letter].
This decision is the result of a violation of company policy, specifically [mention the policy violated and the details of the violation]. We take violations of our policies seriously, and despite discussions and warnings, the behavior has not ceased.
You will receive your final paycheck on your last working day, including any accrued vacation days, and information regarding your employee benefits. Please return all company property and keys on your last day.
If you have any questions or require further clarification, please feel free to reach out to our HR department.
We appreciate your contributions during your time at [Company Name], and we wish you well in your future endeavors.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Company Name]
How not to terminate an employee
Terminating an employee is a delicate process that requires careful consideration and professionalism. To ensure you don't mishandle the situation, here's how not to terminate an employee:
1. Surprise termination
Avoid springing the termination on the employee without any prior warning or discussion. A sudden termination can lead to confusion, resentment, and legal complications. It's essential to provide clear feedback and ample opportunity for improvement before resorting to termination.
2. Lack of documentation
Don't terminate an employee without proper documentation of performance issues, violations, or other legitimate reasons. Without clear evidence, your decision might be perceived as arbitrary or unfair, leading to potential legal challenges.
3. Public or humiliating termination
Do not terminate an employee in front of their colleagues or other staff members. This can cause humiliation and negatively impact team morale. Always conduct termination discussions in private to respect the employee's dignity.
4. Unclear communication
Avoid using vague language or unclear explanations when communicating the reason for termination. Being unclear can lead to misunderstandings and even accusations of unfairness. Be direct, specific, and transparent about the reasons.
5. Lack of empathy
Don't approach the situation with a cold or dismissive demeanor. Terminating an employee is a distressing experience, and lacking empathy can worsen the emotional impact. Show understanding and compassion throughout the process.
6. Ignoring legal and hr procedures
Failing to follow legal requirements and company hr procedures can lead to legal consequences. Always ensure that the termination process adheres to local labor laws and internal policies to avoid potential legal disputes.
7. Ignoring emotional impact
Don't underestimate the emotional impact of termination. An employee's self-esteem and mental well-being can be deeply affected by this event. Provide resources, support, and guidance to help them navigate this challenging period.
8. Not considering transition
Avoid neglecting the practical aspects of the employee's departure. Provide guidance on collecting personal belongings, returning company property, and transitioning responsibilities. Neglecting these details can create confusion and logistical issues.
9. Rushing the process
Termination should never be rushed. Allow sufficient time for the employee to ask questions, seek clarification, and express their concerns. Rushing the process can give the impression that the decision was made arbitrarily.
10. Ignoring legalities and contracts
Don't ignore the terms of the employment contract or any legal obligations tied to termination. Review any contractual agreements, non-compete clauses, and severance benefits to ensure you're acting within the bounds of the law.
11. Lack of follow-up
Don't terminate an employee and then cut off all communication. A lack of follow-up can leave the terminated employee feeling abandoned. Offer post-termination support, answer their questions, and provide guidance as needed.
12. Blaming or shaming
Avoid placing blame solely on the employee during the termination discussion. Focus on the facts and the reasons for the decision, rather than attacking or shaming them.
🧠 Use Empuls surveys to address issues before they escalate
While termination is sometimes unavoidable, many cases of underperformance or disengagement can be resolved much earlier—if organizations listen actively and respond to employee concerns. This is where Empuls Surveys can make a powerful difference.
Empuls offers a suite of AI-powered survey tools designed to help HR and managers:
- Run pulse and engagement surveys to regularly gauge employee sentiment
- Launch anonymous feedback surveys to surface underlying team or cultural issues
- Set up performance improvement check-ins to support struggling employees proactively
- Collect data-driven insights to craft targeted action plans and prevent future attrition
When used consistently, Empuls Surveys act as an early warning system—enabling leaders to identify dissatisfaction, burnout, or misalignment before it reaches the point of termination. It also shows employees that their voices matter, helping build a culture of trust, transparency, and continuous improvement.
By combining proactive listening with thoughtful leadership, organizations can significantly reduce involuntary exits and foster a more engaged, loyal workforce.
🚪 Post-exit intelligence: Exit surveys that close the loop
When termination—or voluntary resignation—does happen, exit surveys on Empuls help organizations learn from those departures.
With Empuls Exit Surveys, you can:
- Understand why employees are leaving—from leadership and culture to compensation or role mismatch
- Identify patterns across departments or demographics that point to deeper organizational issues
- Capture constructive feedback that can inform retention strategies, onboarding improvements, or management training
- Give employees a final opportunity to leave on a positive, respectful note, feeling heard and valued even in their departure
Best of all, Empuls consolidates all survey results into easy-to-interpret dashboards and reports, making it simple for HR leaders to spot trends, share insights with leadership, and continuously refine employee experience strategies.
Terminations are tough—Empuls makes the people part easier
Whether it's catching disengagement early, supporting performance growth, or learning from a respectful exit, Empuls Surveys ensure every employee experience is a learning opportunity. It’s not just about retention—it’s about respect, empathy, and evolving your workplace for the better.
Conclusion
Terminating an employee is a complex process that requires tact, sensitivity, and adherence to legal and ethical standards. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can ensure that the termination is conducted respectfully, professionally, and in a manner that minimizes negative impacts on both the employee and the organization.
Each termination situation is unique, so adapt these steps according to the specific context and company culture. Treating the employee with dignity, respect, and fairness throughout the process is crucial for maintaining a positive work environment and preserving the organization's reputation.
