Rick: How are you doing with the work tasks? Do you think you'll have the set tasks finished by Friday?
John: Yes I should have them done by then.
Rick: Great! Are you coming to the Friday work meeting?
John: If I finish my tasks in time then I will.
Rick: I do need to meet with you privately before then. Can you set aside about 1 hour for a meeting on Wednesday. Say 4-5pm?
John: Yes I can. What is the meeting about?
Rick: I'd rather tell you when we meet face to face.
John: That sounds ominous.
Rick: Don't worry we don't bite.
John: That's not exactly instilling confidence in me.
Rick: Well I didn't want to tell you before the meeting but I guess I should. We've had some negative feedback regarding your performance at work.
John: OK. Is it really bad? I'd rather we talked about it now so I don't have to wait until Wednesday.
Rick: I was hoping to do it face to face. Let's wait until we meet on Wednesday.
John: I'd rather we talked about it now. Is there anything you want me to do to improve my work performance etc.
Rick: No. Nothing at all. I know that you try your best and put a lot of effort in and you're keen to continue to work with us but...
John: ... but you're not keen to continue?
Rick: Something like that. There's nothing I can do John. I would love to keep you on but this is not the first time we've had customers complaining as well as other staff members about your performance.
John: So you want me to quit or do you want to sack me?
Rick: I think it would be best if you handed in your notice. That way we part ways amicably and everyone is happy.
John: Hardly a happy situation.
Rick: I know but my hands are tied.
John: Can I at least count on a good reference from you?
Rick: Yes, of course.
John: Thanks. I must say this is really disappointing and very badly timed. I guess I'll see you on Wednesday.
Complaints have been made about John and he will be made redundant. John should hand in his notice. Rick will give him good reference. They will meet on Wednesday.