1. EachPod

CBL Episode #113-When to Fire: Making Tough Employee Decisions

Author
Shannon Miller & Jamie Runco
Published
Sat 10 May 2025
Episode Link
None

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Every cleaning business owner eventually faces the dreaded moment when they must decide whether to keep struggling with a difficult employee or let them go. 

This raw, candid conversation dives deep into the realities of employee termination, offering practical wisdom for those agonizing over toxic workplace situations. We have all worked in a toxic environment at one point in our working careers.

We also share the precise warning signs that indicate it's time to part ways with staff members – from the employee who consistently gives "underpaid vibes" complaints to those who damage client relationships through poor communication. The unmistakable red flag? 

There is also a reference to Dan Kennedy, ad copy guru, he has a famous saying for when it's time to part ways with a client's that mis behave. 

"When you find yourself waking up three mornings in a row thinking about an employee problem. As the saying goes, if they're consuming that much mental space and you're not sleeping together, it's time for them to go."

The cornerstone of successful termination is proper documentation. We walk through exactly what this means: starting with verbal warnings (which you must document in your calendar), followed by written documentation, and finally termination if behaviors don't improve. Without this crucial paper trail, you're vulnerable to unemployment claims that can significantly increase your tax burden. 

Beyond the legal considerations, we explore the human elements of termination – conducting the conversation in a public place rather than your home office, ensuring you have a witness present, providing final payment properly documented as "last and final pay," and maintaining the employee's dignity throughout the process. Your approach during these difficult moments not only protects your business legally but preserves your reputation in the community.

Listen for crucial distinctions between handling W-2 employees ve

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