Dismissing an employee & providing a reference

 

FEBRUARY 28, 2011 Monday How to Give a Reference for an Employee You Fired Dismissing an employee is a stressful and challenging task. Unfortunately, the difficulties don't always end when he's out the door. Employees, even those you let go, may ask you for references. Here is what to do in those situations: Verify information. Check the former employee's file before giving a reference to ensure that you state justthe facts. Keep it short. Whether you're writing a reference letter or providing a phone reference, limit the amount of information you offer. This will reduce your chances of saying anything that could be perceived as defamatory. Keep it factual. Limit your responses to factual information: dates of employment, title, salary, and other objective data. Today's Management Tip was adapted from the Harvard ManageMentor Online Module, "Dismissing an Employee."