Letting a member of your crew go

[Bob M.]

REPLY: I agree that it needs to be face-to-face and I think you should be absolutely certain to have all other creww members with you to show that it is a crew decision and that all members of the crew stand united in the decision.

That being said, I also believe that if it comes as a surprise to him, you haven't been covering your bases. I would hope that you've shared feedback with him throughout the season and offered to help him through his difficulties. You should have also 'warned' him that you might need to consider alternatives if his performance doesn't improve. If your upcoming meeting is the first time he hears about your dissatisfaction, then you've not been fair with him.