Playing the long game

Letting someone go is never a fun thing in my opinion.
Really just by my not saying "Firing someone" shows my aversion to the whole mess. Unfortunately I had to do that this last week. As much as it affected the person on the other side of the table it truly affects both sides. I walked away from this particular experience realizing a few things that I think any leader or manager needs to realize:

• Do not be afraid to say the unpopular truth

Too many times people only want to reinforce the positive and completely neglect the negative actions/habits that need correcting. One thing I saw in this case was a person who had probably never been "scared straight" from some very bad work habits. Past management in his life didn't seem to take the time to make minor adjustments to keep the employee from later tragedy.

• Be in it for the long game

Saying what may make an employee temporarily defensive or even might hurt their pride, when it is in an attempt to correct them, can have long lasting positive results. Its always easier to be the manager who only gives praise, only give positive feedback during the review times. However it is a much better manager/leader who is willing to be momentarily unpopular and help the employee strive toward bigger and better things in their career.

Be willing to be that leader who will take the time to mentor, correct, and help an employee better themselves. It may take time, it will definitely take effort and for the short term it may be a thankless endeavor, but in the long run you really are doing them a favor.