Is a reason to fire somebody?

Question

A friend of mine told me they got fired by their boss because she said something behind the bosses back. She told me that when the boss was off, She told fellow employee's that she hated the boss. The next day someone told the boss what she said. Then, the boss started harassing my friend and then got my friend fired.

Was this right? I personally think the boss should not have harassed her, though.

What do you think?

Was this right? I personally think the boss should not have harassed her, though.

What do you think?

Nuff Sed · Answer

The employer has no more legal obligation to let her come to work the next day than she has any legal obligation to go.  You can generally be fired for no reason at all.  Being an ignorant and nasty beyotch is MORE than enough reason to be fired.  "I don't like your attitude, you're fired" is perfectly legal.

Bruce · Answer

Is that a reason to fire someone? At-will states don't need a reason to fire you. 
What do I think? I think most people lie about the reason they are fired.

xyzzy · Answer

If she said she hated the boss, why would the boss keep her around? If someone finds that you hate them you cannot expect them to not be defensive.

Slickterp · Answer

That is a reason to fire someone.

Anonymous · Answer

I think your "friend" should keep her mouth shut.

Artemisc · Answer

Depends on the state, and the nature of employment.  A contract or union employee night have some recourse, but an "at will" employee can be fired for any reason.

And as another responder said, maybe she learned something.  It's never a good idea to badmouth the boss.  That kind of behavior is best left behind in high school.

Anonymous · Answer

Hopefully she's learned her lesson.

Is a reason to fire somebody?

7 Answers