Before Firing, Provide Feedback: the importance of open dialogue in employee management 

Making the decision to fire an employee is one of the most difficult and delicate tasks a manager can face. Often, firing is seen as the last option after all other alternatives have been exhausted. However, before reaching this point, it is crucial to provide constructive and open feedback to the employee in question.  

Feedback is an essential tool for professional development. It allows employees to see how they are doing in their work and identify areas for improvement. When feedback is given in a constructive way, it can help employees develop and reach their potential. 

This practice can make all the difference, allowing both parties to align their expectations, identifying possible solutions and avoiding dismissal. 

Feedback as a Development Tool

Feedback should not be interpreted as negative criticism, but rather as an opportunity for growth. By addressing specific points of performance or behavior, it is possible to offer suggestions and guidance so that the employee can improve. This demonstrates the company's commitment to the professional development of its employees.

Advantages of feedback before dismissal

Providing feedback before dismissal can bring a series of advantages, both for the company and for the employee.

For the company:

Can help identify and solve problems: Feedback can help a company identify issues that are leading to poor employee performance. By addressing these issues, a company can avoid firing an employee and keep the employee on the team.

It can improve the organizational climate: When feedback is given constructively, it can help improve the organizational climate. Employees feel more valued and motivated when they receive regular feedback.

For the collaborator:

It can help employees develop professionally: Feedback can help employees identify areas for improvement and develop their skills. This can help them find a new job or become a more valuable employee to the company.

It can make transitioning to a new job easier: When employees receive feedback on their performance, they can better prepare for a job interview. This can increase their chances of finding a new job.

Why provide feedback before firing? 

Providing feedback before firing an employee can help identify areas for improvement. Feedback can help managers and employees identify areas where the employee is not meeting expectations. This can help them create an individual development plan. By offering opportunities for growth to solve problems and avoid dismissal, cultivating a culture of open communication demonstrates your commitment to the development and well-being of your employees, creating a healthier and more productive work environment. 

Terminating an employee is a serious and important decision, but sometimes it is unavoidable. For this reason, make sure that you, as a manager, have done your part: have at least three honest feedback sessions been offered, are expectations between the employee, the company and the manager aligned, and has the employee had space and possibilities to change their attitude? 

If, after these actions, dismissal is the best decision, do it! And remember, at this point it is no longer time for constructive feedback, be objective and empathetic with the employee. 

Conclusion

In this article, you read about feedback and the importance of establishing a true dialogue between leadership and employees. We also showed some advantages, both for the employee and the leader.

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