New HR Officer Needs Help Writing a Testimonial for Terminated Employee – Any Advice?

Hello all,

I recently joined a new firm as the HR officer with little experience in HR. Recently, we had to terminate the appointment of one of the workers due to poor performance and negligence in destroying the company's property. I have been asked to provide a testimonial for his termination and I need help in doing that since I have no idea how to go about it. Please somebody help me as soon as possible. Thank you.

Before terminating the employee, did you conduct the inquiry? Based on the inquiry report, management takes suitable action. Secondly, why do you want to give testimonials to a person who has been sacked? The dictionary meanings of the word testimonial are as follows:

a) Something that serves as evidence
b) Something given or done as an expression of esteem
c) Something that recommends (or expresses commendation of) a person or thing as worthy or desirable

Do you mean to say that you would like to give a "Service-cum-Employment Certificate" to a sacked employee? If yes, then just mention the basic details like his name, designation, date of joining, last working day, any dues outstanding, etc. For the reasons of separation, just write "left on his own volition." No need to mention the actual reasons for his discharge.

Thanks,

Dinesh Divekar

If the employee headcount is less than 50 in Maharashtra, the IE Act will not be applicable, and termination of a worker can be done without an inquiry.

Dear Mr. Prashant,

The mere non-applicability of the Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Act should not be construed to mean that an employee can be terminated without proper termination procedures. The principles of natural justice should be followed in letter and spirit in all disciplinary actions.

Please ensure that employees are treated fairly and in accordance with the established procedures. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Dear DZICORD,

Is the terminated employee asking for a testimonial? Under your local laws, is it mandatory to provide a testimonial to a terminated employee? If it is required to provide such a document to a terminated employee, then you may provide a letter with details such as the date of joining, date of leaving, last drawn salary, reason for leaving (if necessary), etc. Avoid any references to good conduct and performance.

Thank you.