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Welcome to Mastering Hard Conversations

🚨 Firing Should Never Be a Surprise 🚨

Published about 1 month ago • 1 min read

Hey there, Reader,

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Let’s talk about something nobody likes to do but every manager or business owner needs to know how to handle: letting someone go.

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Here’s the deal—firing should never ever be a surprise! If an employee is shocked when they’re let go, that’s a management issue, not just a performance issue. Your job isn’t just to hold people accountable. It’s to communicate and give them a fair shot at improvement.

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If firing is the only option, these steps should have already happened:

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⚡ Verbal Warning – 🗣️ Have a clear, direct conversation about the issue. Let them know what’s not working and what needs to change. This isn’t about punishment—it’s about giving them a real chance to improve. For your protection (and documentation), send an email with bullet points regarding the conversation.

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📝 Written Warning – If things don’t improve, document it. Be https://www.youtube.com/shorts/kWWat89B0v0specific about the problem, the expectations, and the consequences. This is their final opportunity to turn things around. No surprises!

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💔 The Final Conversation – If there’s still no progress, it’s time for the hard conversation. Approach it with empathy and professionalism. Acknowledge their efforts, but be crystal clear about why this is happening—no drawn-out explanations—just honesty and respect.

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🎥 I dive deeper into this topic in today’s video—check it out here:Video Link​

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Doing this right isn’t just about avoiding legal trouble (though that matters ⚖️). It’s about integrity, leadership, and making sure your team knows that accountability is part of your culture.

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Firing is hard. But when done correctly, it’s not cruel—it’s clarity.

You’ve got this! 💪I'm cheering you on,

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Elisabeth Robinson
Your Mastering Hard Conversations Coach👩‍🏫
https://masteringhardconversations.com

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📲 Need a game plan? Book a FREE 15-minute Strategic Call using this link: Schedule Here 📅

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video preview​

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*Schedule your FREE 15-minute strategic call using this link https://calendly.com/elisabeth-bn17/30min đź“…

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Jack Frost Way, Saratoga Springs, UT 84045

Come visit my website at Mastering Hard Conversations or email me at elisabeth@masteringhardconversations.com

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Welcome to Mastering Hard Conversations

Hi! I am Elisabeth Robinson

I'm here to offer my coaching services to women who feel anxious when dealing with complex conversations in their personal or professional life. My main goal is to help women build up their confidence and strength to effectively communicate their thoughts and emotions in any situation. Let me help you become the best communicator you can be!

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