How Long Should It Take

Don’t prolong the firing.  Only the worker’s direct supervisors, and any witnesses that will be present at the termination meeting, should be told about the termination decision in advance.

When Is The Best Time

There is not appropriate day of the week to fire someone.  Monday is as good as Wednesday or Friday.  You may fire them in the morning or afternoon.

Where Should You Do It

When you are ready to inform the employee let them know that you have something to discuss with them in the office.  Explain to the employee why he/she is being fired.  Be brief and get to the point. 

Offer Something

If you are offering severance pay, explain the severance offer and present the employee with the forfeiture document to be signed if the severance is to be paid.

When Should The Employee Leave The Office and What Should They Be Allowed To Take

Offer to let the employee clean out his or her office or desk now, or have you mail any personal belongings to him or her later.

As long as the employee doesn't lose control, extend him or her every reasonable courtesy. Certainly give the person an opportunity to say good bye to coworkers. He or she will only call these people up on the phone later anyway.

What If they Are Uncooperative

If the employee does lose control and becomes verbally abusive, ask him or her to vacate the building immediately.  You may want to have security on standby to escort them.