How can I prepare myself mentally to fire my assistant?

I have to fire my assistant Monday (my boss is out of town until Monday, so that's why she's not already fired) and I'm already nervous and stressed out. I've never fired anyone before and I really tried to make this work, but I just can't rely on her. I'm always having to double check her work. And recently I found out she went over my head to talk to my boss about her job performance. What's the best way to face this head on without turning into a wreck? We share an office so I've been pretty distant with her. I know I'm doing the right thing by letting her go but I still feel so bad.

Also, it's my birthday this weekend and I want to enjoy it!

Okay first of all calm down. You need to realize that firing is part of being a business woman. This is what it is all about...

Now start practicing. Say out loud exactly what you plan to say to her. Keep it BRIEF and get the point as quickly as possibleDon't him and ha about how you know she is really trying hard or anything like that...it just confuses the poor girl. Give it her straight. People prefer that.

Here is a test script I use

Can I speak with you for a minute________.?

"I want to talk to you about something pretty serious- and I have to say this is a difficult conversation for me (nothing wrong with being honest about it). I feel you are no the right fit for our company and for my needs specifically. I appreciate all your efforts (even if you don't), but I have decided it would be best if we parted ways at this time. And I will be happy to offer you a letter of recommendation if you would like....."

Now- she is going to say something like 'what exactly did I do wrong?"...don't get into specifics or details. Be general- otherwise an arguement might start. So go with " well, generally speaking I think your skills are not well suited for my needs".......then proceed to the details. "I would like your last day to be ________. You will receive your last check on______. I really wish the best in the future- I know you will be successful once you find a company better suited for your skills. I am sorry this was not the right company for you"

Hope this helps- now go get em girl!

Watch "The Apprentice"

Then just get it over with. The more you think about it the more its going to drive you crazy. Just tell yourself you know its the right thing to do, and do it.

If you're birthday is this weekend get it done tomorrow! Right away when you get there. That way it will be done and over and you can enjoy your birthday weekend!

Keep it simple. Don't think of it as firing her. Think of it as "letting her go" because "it isn't working out" and "her services are no longer needed." Thank her for time and good luck with that.

There's no easy way.

JUST AS YOU WROTE THIS QUESTION. P.S. HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Just remind yourself that it's not personal and that she is not performing to your standards. She is making your job harder. You just need to be honest with her that her work isn't up to par and that you are letting her go. You hope she will find a better opportunity elsewhere. If there is an HR manager at your company, ask then for some pointers or even to participate in the conversation. But remember, this is the right decision in the long run. Have a happy birthday.

dondon is right but you have to do it so write a formal straight forward letter and send it to her VIA fax .
save u from feeling bad(well a little)

Do it like it is done on the Apprentice and do it in the afternoon and block any computer access the person has had beforehand. There is no easy way.

I was in a similar situation when I was a secretary a long time ago. It was the hardest thing I ever had to do. My assistant was a very nice person but she was so inept (very slow, late for work, she really could not pick up the pace of a very fast paced lawfirm). Well, what I did was talked to her in private in the conference room and just told her that I'm sorry that I have to bring you this news but I have been given the word that we no longer need your services. I said something like she is probably better suited in a slower paced office and this is probably too overwhelming for her and that we need someone who can keep up the pace, etc. etc. Yes, she bawled after I said that, but it was done. It did not take long...probablly 10-15 minutes tops.

HAPPY EARLY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!!

just do it and stop thinking at this thing OK.it s not like you are firring your mom let this thought free and just enjoy your birthday happy birthday !!