FIRING UNDERPERFORMING EMPLOYEES (AT STARTUPS)

Summary from the TLDR Founders newsletter

You've failed as a manager if someone is surprised they are getting fired for performance. Underperforming employees should have their performance discussed regularly before anything happens. If they still aren't performing after several weeks, have a lawyer create separation documents for them to sign, then offer them severance in exchange for signing the documents. Communicate the decision to the team with respect.