It’s time to change how we think about our employees

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to propose the need to be bolder about recognizing when an employee needs to be let go.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based upon a review of literature and extensive fieldwork.

Findings

Three situations are presented for when releasing an employee may be the appropriate tactic, along with five general principles for shifting the organization–employee relationship from unhealthy enmeshment to a mutually beneficial arrangement.

Originality/value

This paper proposes a practical view of the organization–employee relationship that strives to enhance organizational performance while honoring the humanity of the employee.

Citation

Martin, J. (2021), "It’s time to change how we think about our employees", Strategic HR Review, Vol. 20 No. 2, pp. 55-59. https://doi.org/10.1108/SHR-01-2021-0002