ABSTRACT
One of the most stressful tasks for an engineering manager is to lay off, fire, or otherwise lose a team member. No matter how many times an engineering manager has fired or laid off employees, it never becomes any easier. Engineering managers must work to maintain the morale of the team members left behind in the department. Layoffs and firings require very careful planning and quick execution, and it is advisable to have a human resources person present for each. It is also necessary to coordinate with the information technology department to cut off the former employee’s digital access, and the security department should have a representative stationed nearby when the individual exits. Litigation involving the company and the engineering manager is always possible as a result of a layoff or firing. Engineering managers must be prepared for engineers and technicians leaving the department at any time, such as in the middle of a very important project or just before a critical technical presentation to a customer.
