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Case Code: CLHR018
Case Length: 3 pages 
Period: --  
Pub Date: 2009
Teaching Note: Not Available
Subject : Human Resources/ Organization Behavior
Price:Rs.100
Organization :--
Industry : Consumer Electronics Retail
Countries : --

RadioShack's E-mail Firing Fiasco: Is There a Great Way to Fire Employees?*

 

ABSTRACT

In August 2006, the decision of US-based consumer electronics specialty retailer RadioShack Corporation to inform 400 employees by e-mail that they had been laid-off sparked a controversy with many industry observers and management experts saying it smacked of a lack of consideration and respect for the employees.
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Issues:

  • Firing; termination of employment
  • Business communication
Introduction
"The work force reduction notification is currently in progress. Unfortunately your position is one that has been eliminated." This e-mail message greeted 400 employees of the US-based consumer electronics specialty retailer RadioShack Corporation when they opened their mail box at 8:45 am on August 29, 2006...
Questions for Discussion:
1. Critically analyze RadioShack's decision to inform fired employees about their fate through e-mail.
2. Discuss how the issue of termination of employment can be handled by HR professionals.

Keywords

Firing,termination,Business



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