Q&A with The Workplace Advisors – October 2024
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Question: We had to let an employee go last week. I just received a message from one of their parents demanding I call them back to explain why they were let go and that I rehire them immediately. The termination was for good cause. Should I respond or leave it alone?
Answer: Maybe. We all understand family members defending their loved ones even if they do not know all of the circumstances. Usually, we do not need to (and, in most cases, should not) engage with them.
If the employee is a minor (under 18 years of age) then you probably should reach out to the parent and give some information as to the circumstances. Just as they may need to sign some of the new hire documents on behalf of their minor child, they may need to know what their child has done. You can stay firm in not rehiring the employee. Keep the conversation concise, ending it if it becomes too aggressive.
If the employee is an adult (18 years or older), then you should not give any details as all employees deserve some confidentiality, even from family members. While you can ignore the request, you may consider a brief return call saying you cannot provide that information so they do not continue to bother you. Again, end the conversation if it becomes too aggressive.
As a side note: The only time you should communicate with an adult employee's family member about them is if the employee is unable to talk with you themselves, and then you should communicate with the family member (preferably the employee's emergency contact) just on the basics. For example, if the employee is in the hospital and unresponsive, you should let a family member notify you, keep you up-to-date on the employee's health and status, and allow them to have any forms completed that you may need to process their leave and/or benefits.
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