Johnny C. Taylor Jr. is working on your HR questions as part of the USA Today series. Taylor is the world’s largest HR professional society and the president and CEO of the Human Resources Management Association, author of “Reset: A Guide to Leaders to Work in an Era of Trending Times.”
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question: While I was in seasonal work, I was fired a few weeks before my term ended. But my employer never gave me any reason to fire. My previous manager introduced me to HR, but I never received a response to my enquiries there. Can an employer be fired without giving reasons for firing? – Leo
Answer: Sorry to ask about your situation. Ending without explanation can definitely be frustrating and confusing. Details may vary depending on your location and circumstances, but here is general guidance that will help you clarify your rights and options.
The answer depends heavily on the laws of your state or country and the nature of your employment. Most states operate under a “will” employment system. This means that you can terminate your employment at any time for any reason (or no reason) unless the employer is illegal (e.g. discrimination or retaliation). However, some states have laws that require employers to provide an oral or written explanation of termination, particularly in the case of involuntary dismissal.
Since your job was seasonal, the terms of your employment may also be governed by the contract or contract. If there were certain guidelines regarding the period or conditions of termination outlined in that agreement, the employer should have followed them.
Employers are not always legally necessary to provide reasons, but doing so is considered best practice. Telling the reason for the termination helps to prevent confusion and conflict, demonstrating that the decision is thoughtful and impartial. If the employer can’t provide a reason, it can naturally raise concerns.
If your previous manager refers you to HR and you fail to get a response from them, it is worth taking additional steps for follow-up. This is what you can do:
◾Please contact HR again. Please contact us by email or phone and repeat your request for clarification. Make your communication clear and professional.
◾Please check the employment documentation. Review the offer letters, contracts, or employee handbooks you received when you started work. These may provide information about termination policies and procedures.
◾Document everything. Keep a record of all communications with your previous employer, including the date and time you contacted HR and other contacts.
If you think the termination is discriminatory or violated the Employment Act, there are a few options.
◾I’m looking for legal guidance. Consulting with an employment attorney will help you better understand your rights and terms of the contract, especially if termination is considered illegal.
◾I file a complaint. If termination violates employment laws, you may be able to do this through your state’s Bureau of Labor or the Equal Employment Opportunity Committee (EEOC).
The situation may be disappointing, but use it as an opportunity to reflect it and move forward. If you are re-entering the job market, focus on highlighting the roles of the season and skills and experiences from lessons learned. No matter the situation, you can confidently take the next step in your career.
Being proactive and being informed about your rights is always a good move. If you need further guidance, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice or resources in your area.
I wish you the best Your next chapter!
The opinions and opinions expressed in this column are the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of USA Today.
