Your Fired! Poem by Manager Poet

We’ve heard the words used on “The Apprentice.”
Ah, but lessons can be learned so let’s reminisce.
Each week, we saw teams competing to win.
One loser will be fired much to their chagrin.

When employees lose their job, they’re sent packing.
My empathy is real and for them has never been lacking.
Though seemingly personal, the rippling effect has begun.
It affects family, coworkers - seemingly everyone.

I’ve served witness to employees getting sacked.
It’s a part of being in Personnel and that’s a fact.
This is real life and not part of some hit show.
If you’re a manager, these words I must bestow.

You must begin by making the right choice in your hire.
This is the greatest thing you do to risk having to fire.
As time goes forward, you must coach and give feedback.
To secure improvement, you must have a plan of attack.

Determine if the problem is performance, attendance, or conduct.
Identify and address one issue at a time is what I instruct.
By addressing the problem early, you avoid a typical trap.
Delaying your duties makes correcting anything but a snap.

When you’ve done your best, the burden now rests with the employee.
If you still must terminate, keep your compassion and control you see.
Call someone in Personnel to help work through this difficult time.
I can assure you, a wrongful termination suit will cost more than a dime.

When an employee losses his or her job, they’re sent packing.
Your empathy should be real and should never be lacking.
Though seemingly personal, the rippling effect has now begun.
Never forget the words “Your Fired” affects everyone.