Hiring a new employee in a tight economy is a risky investment. On average, it can cost a company up to 50,000 dollars to hire an employee. This number is even greater for the federal government where, for each employee, thousands of additional dollars are spent on a security clearance and additional technology support. However, sometimes the investments put into hiring a new employee do not pay off. Undoubtedly, organizations stumble across an employee who seems unfit and the ultimate question becomes, to fire or not to fire? Firing an employee not only puts an emotional and mental toll on the individual, but is expected to affect the organization’s credibility. 

Increasing research has shown that a lack of adequate training programs and poor supervision result in poor workplace ethics. Additionally, current research argues that the number one reason for an employee not performing to the best of their ability is because a bad boss. However, the good news is, as humans we are able to be molded and shaped in order to become more efficient.Increasing research has shown that we should laugh at our mistakes and aim to correct them. 

Specifically, through one-on-one training and effective coaching, an employee has great potentials to improve. Using humor is the best remedy, and specifically being able to laugh at one’s mistake is crucial in order to improve. Of course, there is always an exception to this rule; if an employee maliciously or intentionally harms the organization through bad conduct and choices, dismissal consequences may be necessary in order to maintain the organization’s integrity. This problem does not need a dose of satire, but rather a fire would be the better prescription. 

What techniques does your organization incorporate in order to deal with a bad employee? Is laughter a viable solution?